Two-Level Balance and Stability in Russia's Middle East Policy: Implications for Iran's Security and Interests

The purpose of this article is to study the concepts of balance and stability in Russia's Middle East policy and the resulting threats and benefits for Iran. In the author's view, Moscow believes that establishing balance and strategic stability at two levels could help secure its long-term interests, given its limited resources and regional dynamics, particularly the potential of regional instability and threats spilling over fast to adjacent areas and the international stage. Balancing relations with the United States and contributing to efforts aimed at forging balanced relations between regional powers are the two principles of balance at the regional level that Russia is following to achieve its major aim of ensuring strategic stability. Although cooperation with the United States as part of Russia's macro policy of balance and stability within the framework of global governance creates certain restrictions for Iran, some aspects of it, including the deterrence it provides against destabilizing moves by the United States and its allies, are in line with Tehran's interests.