The Islamic Republic of Iran and Islamic Fundamentalism in Central Asia

After the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991 and inevitable independence of the Central Asian republics، the regional states faced many political-security challenges. One of the most significant challenges has been the growth and expansion of Islamic fundamentalism in the region. Particularly after 9/11، the issue has got a considerable importance. In this regard، different views and analyses have been provided by emphasizing domestic and foreign factors. Meanwhile the role of the Islamic Republic of Iran and its policy has been raised as one of main factors in the growth and expansion of Islamic fundamentalism in the region. The main question of this article is: What is the nature of Iran’s role in spreading Islamic fundamentalism? The authors examine the role if Iran in the growth and spread of Islamic fundamentalism by using a descriptive-analytical method.