Political Assessment of the Strategic Approach and Positions of the Islamic Republic of Iran Regarding the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

The objective of this research is to politically assess the strategic approach and positions of the Islamic Republic of Iran concerning the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). The research method is descriptive-analytical, and the findings indicate that the mutual interests of Iran and the two major powers within the SCO, Russia, and China, in preventing American influence in Southwest Asia, particularly Central Asia, have brought them closer together within the framework of bilateral relations and also within the SCO. To counter American hegemony at the regional level and ensure its national interests against the security threats posed by the United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran has taken steps towards permanent membership in the SCO. Permanent membership in the SCO has provided structural opportunities for Iran, which, on one hand, can create a balance against American hegemony in the region with the support of the powers within this structure, and on the other hand, enhances Iran's political and security status in Central Asian equations and Middle Eastern developments. Therefore, with the aforementioned high capacities in the Middle East region, Iran has the necessary strategic capability to become a regional power.