Analysis of Russia-Iran cooperation in the Syrian crisis within the framework of realist theory

Despite its significant internal debates, realist theory continues to maintain its position as the dominant theoretical framework in the discipline of international relations. This theory, which places the state at the center as the primary actor, offers explanatory theories at various levels of analysis within the discipline and remains the most commonly used framework for understanding international relations. In examining Russia-Iran relations both generally across all critical processes and specifically in the context of the Syrian crisis, this study adopts realist theory as its primary reference point and framework. In this context, the study explores the Russia-Iran cooperation in the Syrian crisis. Initially, bilateral relations between the two countries, which continued on a confrontational and competitive basis, shifted to a cooperation-based framework in the context of the Syrian crisis. The Russia-Iran relationship has established a framework in the Syrian crisis that prioritizes cooperation due to security concerns and masks other points of conflict. The study reveals that the joint stance and cooperation that the two countries have begun to demonstrate in the Syrian crisis are closely related to the changes in the distribution of power between states. On the other hand, it emphasizes that the shared perception of threats and the mutual search for security against isolation and sanctions are the most influential dynamics in determining the relations between the two states. In this respect, the study highlights that the neorealist approach, which stands out with its systemic explanations and prioritizes the distribution of power and security concerns, is the most appropriate theoretical framework for explaining the cooperation developed at Syrian crisis between the two states. As these results are presented, Russia-Iran relations are comprehensively reviewed from their inception to the present day.