perspective on the strategicization of relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan

The present article seeks to explain and evaluate the strategic relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan. Based on its neighborhood policy and economic diplomacy strategy, the Islamic Republic of Iran has defined a special importance and position for the development of relations with countries in its periphery. Pakistan also has a strong interest in reducing disputes on the western border with Iran to focus on managing the eastern border with India and meeting its economic needs from Iran. In this regard, the main question of the present article is, considering the various levels and dimensions of the Islamic Republic of Iran's relations with Pakistan, to what extent is it possible to form a strategic alliance in the relations between the two sides? In response, the hypothesis is tested that cultural and security commonalities, along with geographical, historical, and economic proximity, also complement convergence factors in Tehran-Islamabad bilateral relations, while variables such as US strategy toward Iran, Saudi Arabia, and UAE anti-Iranian foreign policy. Arab and border disputes, along with the re-emergence of the Taliban in Afghanistan, have paved the way for divergence in bilateral relations.