Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 06/2008

The US and Iran on a Confrontational Course

Tapani Vaahtoranta, Steve Wright

March 2005

Finnish Institute for International Affairs

Abstract

The US and Iran are on a confrontational course. Iran challenges the US hegemony in the region and is striving for regional dominance. The US does not accept the current Iranian regime, foreign policy or drive towards nuclear capability. The strategies of both have led to a classic game of chicken. Neither is ready to give concessions to avoid confrontation.