Chapter 6 of the Reading Club of the Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran
Spring 2025,
Text study and discussion of the book "Iran's Strategic Isolation", by Dr. Mohiaddin Mesbahi
The theory of strategic loneliness, proposed by prominent Iranian strategist Mohiaddin Mesbahi, describes Iran's geopolitical condition characterized by a historical and strategic isolation due to the absence of natural alliances with major powers and the lack of defensible natural borders. The theory highlights that Iran, whether by choice or necessity, has remained detached from meaningful alliances with superpowers, a situation exacerbated after the Islamic Revolution, the hostage crisis, and the Iran-Iraq War. Mesbahi argues that in such circumstances, Iran must rely on its internal capabilities, as its borders serve as defensive frontlines, a reality rooted in the country’s history of invasions and vulnerable geography.
