Iran and the Caucasus States in the 21st Century: A Study of Foreign Policy Goals and Means

The discussion of Iranian relations with other Caucasus states ranges from claims about Tehran's ambition for exporting its revolution to suggestions as to whether it plays a positive role in stabilizing the region. How may one identify Iran's main policy goals? What are Tehran's major means in implementing these goals? How should one explain the bilateral ties between Iran and each Caucasus state? This paper will seek to examine the foreign policy philosophy adopted by Iran's contemporary leaders in light of the options that exist with regard to the country's resource needs and ideological goals and the resulting policy directions that are chosen, especially as far as the Caucasus states are concerned.