By Syed Zubair Ahmad
Ebrahim Raisi, the President of Iran, has demonstrated a series of strategic maneuvers that have had significant geopolitical impacts, especially concerning Israel and the broader Middle East. His actions have not only tightened Iran’s grip on regional affairs but also showcased Iran’s growing influence and capabilities on various fronts.
Tightening the Siege Around Israel
One of Raisi’s notable strategies has been to reinforce the siege around Israel by supporting and preparing militant groups such as Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and Hezbollah. These groups have long been thorns in Israel’s side, and under Raisi’s administration, their capabilities have seen substantial enhancements. This support includes financial aid, military training, and advanced weaponry, ensuring that these groups remain potent threats to Israel’s security. This encirclement strategy aims to keep Israel under constant pressure and prevent it from feeling secure within its borders.
Targeting Mossad networks in Erbil, Iraq
Another significant achievement under Raisi’s leadership was targeting Mossad networks in Erbil, Iraq. Erbil, a key city in the Kurdish region of Iraq, has been a hotspot for Israeli intelligence operations. By dismantling Mossad’s networks here, Raisi dealt a significant blow to Israeli intelligence capabilities in the region. This move not only showcased Iran’s intelligence prowess but also sent a clear message to Israel about Iran’s reach and capabilities in counterintelligence operations.
Strengthening the Axis of Resistance
Raisi has been instrumental in strengthening the “Axis of Resistance,” a coalition of anti-Israel and anti-Western states and groups that include Syria, Hezbollah, and various Iraqi militias. Under his leadership, this axis has become more coordinated and effective in countering Israeli and Western influences in the region. By bolstering these alliances, Raisi has ensured that Iran’s regional allies remain robust and capable of resisting external pressures.
Empowering the Houthis
In Yemen, Raisi’s support has made the Houthis a formidable force, turning them into a key player in the strategic Bab al-Mandab strait, a critical chokepoint in the Horn of Africa. The Houthis, initially a local insurgent group, have grown in strength and influence, posing significant challenges to Saudi Arabia and its allies. Their control over Bab al-Mandab has implications for international shipping routes and regional security, making them a significant factor in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Strategic Strikes Against Israel
Raisi has overseen successful attacks on Israeli targets, achieving Iran’s limited but crucial objectives. These strikes, often carried out through proxies, have targeted critical infrastructure and military assets, keeping Israel on high alert. By achieving these tactical victories, Raisi has maintained a state of perpetual tension, ensuring that Israel remains preoccupied with immediate threats rather than strategic expansion.
Establishing Iran as a Drone Power
Under Raisi’s administration, Iran has established itself as a significant drone power. Iranian drones have been used effectively in various conflicts, showcasing their capability and reliability. This technological advancement has given Iran a strategic edge, allowing it to conduct surveillance and precision strikes without risking personnel. The proliferation of Iranian drones to allied groups has further extended Iran’s influence and operational reach.
Aligning with Russia in the Ukraine War
Raisi’s strategic foresight was evident in aligning with Russia during the Russia-Ukraine war. By providing military and logistical support to Russia, Iran has strengthened its ties with a major global power. This alignment has not only brought economic benefits, recovering the costs of its assistance, but also positioned Iran favorably in the geopolitical landscape. The collaboration has facilitated the exchange of military technology and intelligence, bolstering Iran’s capabilities.
Building Relations with Arab Neighbors
Raisi has also laid the foundation for improved relations with neighboring Arab countries, creating channels of communication that were previously strained. This diplomatic effort has been crucial in undermining the hard work of the United States and Israel to isolate Iran. By engaging in dialogue and fostering better ties with Arab states, Raisi has weakened the regional consensus against Iran, paving the way for potential cooperation and reduced hostilities.
Shaking the Notion of Invincible Israel
Raisi has succeeded in shaking the long-held notion of Israel’s invincibility among Arab sheikhs and kings. Through strategic actions and consistent pressure, he has demonstrated that Israel is vulnerable and can be challenged. This shift in perception has significant implications for regional politics, potentially altering alliances and strategies among Middle Eastern states.
Comprehensive Strategic Alliance with China
Iran’s strategic alliance with China has strengthened significantly under the leadership of president Ebrahim Raisi, driven by mutual economic and geopolitical interests. This partnership includes extensive cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and military domains. The 25-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement signed in 2021 outlines a roadmap for long-term collaboration, with China investing in key Iranian sectors. This alliance not only bolsters Iran’s economy but also provides China with a stable energy source and a strategic foothold in the Middle East, challenging Western influence in the region.
Ebrahim Raisi’s strategic moves have had profound impacts on regional geopolitics. His actions have not only fortified Iran’s position but also challenged the status quo, keeping adversaries on edge and redefining power dynamics in the Middle East