Examining the Islamic Republic of Iran's Grounds for Joining the SCO and its Consequences

The national security of a country is the result of both domestic and international developments in that country. Governments join economic, security, and other treaties to improve their national security. One of the regional treaties that Iran has joined as a permanent member is the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Thus, the question to be addressed is: What effects does the Islamic Republic of Iran's permanent membership in the SCO have on its national security? In this regard, we have employed defensive realism prepositions to cover the study's objectives. This study uses a descriptive-analytical method, with data collected through a documentary and desk research approach. The findings reveal that the Islamic Republic of Iran's policy toward the United States' maximum pressure is centered on resistance, as well as continuing its strategic regional actions, which rely on a hard balancing approach and coalition with neighboring countries. Consequently, Iran's strong presence in the SCO may eventually improve its national security.