Episode 25: Perfect asymmetry: Iran’s networks of influence in the Middle East

In this special episode of Sounds Strategic, John Raine, Senior Adviser for Geopolitical Due Diligence, and Kori Schake have an in-depth discussion about the new IISS Strategic Dossier, Iran’s Networks of Influence in the Middle East, and what its findings mean for understanding security in the Middle East today.As the report shows, Iran has meticulously spread its influence across the Middle East since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979. It has done this through a huge variety of relationships with state and non-state groups. It has taken advantage of instability in Iraq following the US invasion in 2003 and has become a vital guarantor for the Assad regime in Syria. In Lebanon and Yemen, it has partnered with non-state groups to further its own strategic objectives. Looking at these networks collectively, as the IISS Strategic Dossier does, it is clear that Iran has curated a comprehensive strategic ‘sovereign capability’ that has been carefully resourced, financed and supported by the Iranian government and one that Iran’s rivals have been unable to counter. During the episode, John Raine and Kori delve further into what this strategic capability means for regional security, the balance of ‘effective force’, the possible risks and limitations of such a capability and what Iran’s rivals can do to counter it. John and Kori also discuss the recent protests in Lebanon and Iraq, and how they may in fact represent a powerful reaction to Iran’s overly effective spread of influence into the Arab world.Recommended reading:‘Tehran’s strategic intent’, Iran’s Networks of Influence in the Middle East, (London: IISS, 2019) Date of recording: 11 November 2019Sounds Strategic is recorded and produced at the IISS in London.Theme music: ‘Safety in Numbers’ by We Were Promised Jetpacks.

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