Comparative analysis of the politics put into practice by Iran and U.S.A in the Middle East region

Relations between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran are influenced by complex historical, geopolitical, and ideological factors. To have a genuine understanding of the relations between the U.S. and Iran requires knowledge of the historical, ideological, and philosophical grounding of the two nations. This report will analyze the history of both the United States and Iran, their geopolitical situation, and the worldview which shapes their foreign policy. Only with this comprehensive level of understanding can American policymakers create a foreign policy towards Iran which is in the national interest of the United States. This report argues that the primary goal of United States foreign policy for the last century is the creation of a liberal world order which respects the rule of law promotes free trade, and respects individual rights. The direction of American foreign policy might be shifting towards a nationalist direction under the leadership of President Trump. Iranian foreign policy is guided by the principle of maintaining its national sovereignty. The primary influence on Iranian philosophical and ideological development is Shia Islam, which serves to re-enforce the independence of Iran from its Sunni neighbors. The tense relationship between the United States and Iran is a product of the Islamic Revolution of 1979, in which a theocratic revolutionary movement overthrew the Shah, an ally of the United States, and took American diplomats hostage. This report recommends a re-examination of Iranian United States relations. The Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States share a common interest in suppressing radical Sunni extremist groups such as ISIS, and Iran's willingness to sign the Iran Deal indicates a desire to deal in good faith with the United States. This report recommends a re-examination of the Bush II/Obama era policy of regime change and instead argues that is in the national interest to have a policy towards Iran, and the Middle East, which emphasizes stability rather than ideology. Keywords: Iran Policy, US Policy, Iran – US relations, Middle East Policy, foreign policy