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The Foreign Desk

What does Iran want?

Jun 29, 2024
Exploring Iran's evolving influence in the Middle East, with discussions on the upcoming presidential elections and potential succession of the Ayatollah. The podcast delves into protests in Iran, its foreign policy strategy in the Arab world, and failed attack on Israel. Insightful analysis on Iran's activities in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, and the impact of targeted attacks on Iran's military high command.
33:51

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Iran's new president may have limited influence on foreign policy due to the Supreme Leader's control.
  • Iran maintains regional influence through proxies like Hezbollah and Shia militias as a forward defense mechanism.

Deep dives

Iran's Presidential Election and Foreign Policy

Iran's recent presidential election, following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi, is carried out under the watch of the Guardian Council, aligning with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's preferences. The new president's influence on Iranian foreign policy may be limited as the Supreme Leader holds the key decisions. Iran positions itself as an anti-imperialist stronghold, supporting entities like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthi rebels. Despite changing leadership, Iran's core foreign policy ideologies persist, aiming to exert influence and portray strength in the Middle East.

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