Study and Explain OPEC-Based Energy Diplomacy: A Strategy or Obstacle for the Development of Iran's Oil Industry

OPEC is one of the oldest influential organizations in the oil market, which was formed with aim of regulating and balancing the oil market. Also, the increasing dependence of countries on oil and gas resources has further strengthened the issue of energy security in the field of diplomacy. Iran, as a longtime member and founder of OPEC, has been trying to regulate the market with its major oil producers, members of the organization since its inception. The present article seeks to answer several questions using a qualitative research method with a documentary analysis approach; What are the benefits and harms of Iran's continued membership in OPEC and also is the use of OPEC-based oil diplomacy capacity by Iran an effective strategy or can it be an obstacle to the development of production? Findings show that contrary to opinion of a group of researchers that Iran does not continue to be a member of OPEC in order to remove obstacles to development of production and oil market share, the capacity of diplomacy based on this organization can expand market position and market share and impose oil sanctions. According to results, continuation of membership in OPEC will lead to connection of sanctioned countries in the form of OPEC diplomacy, introduction of Iranian oil alongside the OPEC oil basket in the international market, training of experts. Iran is an expert and influential, using capacity of OPEC to counter sanctions and seek technical and economic cooperation in the field of oil for the country.