Understanding Iran-Hamas Relations from a Defensive Neo-Realist Approach
Abstract
This paper aims at understanding the dynamics behind the Iranian support for the Sunni Palestinian group Hamas by analyzing the mutual relations from a defensive neo-realist approach. The paper begins with a historical overview of Iran-Hamas relations and the periods that saw these relations being improved or deteriorated. It then addresses the defensive neo-realist approach in terms of the basic ideas proposed by Kenneth Waltz, the founder of the theory of neo-realism, and the differences between his view and the offensive approach suggested by John Mearsheimer and others. The third part of the paper examines the defensive neo-realist analysis on the relation between states and non-state actors by testing Iran as an inspector for soft power in the Sunni-majority region, and, the probable threat that can be defended by this relation. It also deals with the difficulties averting Iran from becoming the sole hegemon in the region and how Iran takes advantage of this relationship to maintain a dominant role in the Middle East and how the latest rapprochement between two Gulf countries and Israel would contribute to consolidate that relation.
Keywords
Iran , Hamas , Neo-Realism , Defensive Realism , Soft Power
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