1
Assistant Professor, Faculty of Defense, National Defense University
2
Professor at National Defense University
3
Assistant Professor, National Defense University
Abstract
Iran and Saudi Arabia, as two major players in the geopolitically significant Persian Gulf region, are seeking to adapt their regional actions to the evolving global landscape. The nature of their bilateral relationship plays a decisive role in shaping developments in Southwest Asia. Given that geopolitical factors can serve as a foundation for either competition or confrontation, this study aims to identify the key geopolitical factors affecting relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
The research employs a descriptive-analytical and applied methodology. The study involved theoretical investigations into the geopolitical landscapes of both countries, followed by the development of questionnaires administered in two stages to a full sample of 36 participants. After collecting responses, the data were processed using statistical methods, including frequency distribution tables, single-sample t-tests, and mean comparisons.
Based on the theories of balance of power and critical geopolitics, and drawing on the main geopolitical dimensions—political, economic, technological, natural, and military—34 factors influencing bilateral relations were identified. Analysis of the collected data revealed that, in order of priority, the military dimension (with seven sub-factors), technological (three sub-factors), political (eleven sub-factors), natural (four sub-factors), and economic (nine sub-factors) are the most significant factors shaping the relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Kamali, M. , Boualhosseini, K. and Fatemi Nasab, A. (2025). The geopolitical factors influencing Iran-Saudi Arabia relations in the context of new cooperation. Strategic Defense Studies, 23(100), 236-258.
MLA
Kamali, M. , , Boualhosseini, K. , and Fatemi Nasab, A. . "The geopolitical factors influencing Iran-Saudi Arabia relations in the context of new cooperation", Strategic Defense Studies, 23, 100, 2025, 236-258.
HARVARD
Kamali, M., Boualhosseini, K., Fatemi Nasab, A. (2025). 'The geopolitical factors influencing Iran-Saudi Arabia relations in the context of new cooperation', Strategic Defense Studies, 23(100), pp. 236-258.
CHICAGO
M. Kamali , K. Boualhosseini and A. Fatemi Nasab, "The geopolitical factors influencing Iran-Saudi Arabia relations in the context of new cooperation," Strategic Defense Studies, 23 100 (2025): 236-258,
VANCOUVER
Kamali, M., Boualhosseini, K., Fatemi Nasab, A. The geopolitical factors influencing Iran-Saudi Arabia relations in the context of new cooperation. Strategic Defense Studies, 2025; 23(100): 236-258.
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