Social SciencesInternational RelationsPolitical ScienceInsurgencyInternational SecuritySecurity StudiesCivil-military RelationsDefense PolicyForeign PolicyMiddle Eastern Conflict StudiesMiddle Eastern PoliticsMilitary StrategyBalancingCoalition WarfareCoalition WarsInsurgency AnalysisNonpossessory Security InterestsPolitical Objectives In WarState Support For Insurgents
Abstract : The Islamic Republic of Iran continues to provide measured support to Taliban insurgents battling U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan. However, Iran also maintains close and constructive relations with the same Afghan central government that is battling Taliban forces. Iran's complex and, at times, contradictory set of cultural, religious, political, and security interests shapes its behavior in Afghanistan, to the benefit and detriment of U.S. objectives. This paper examines Iran's objectives and interests in Afghanistan and the consequent Iranian policies affecting U.S. forces in Afghanistan.