Examining the United States’ approach and grand strategy in West Asia after October 7, 2023, is of considerable importance, as this event not only altered the regional balance of power but also, through increased pressure on Iran and the Axis of Resistance, contributed to significant political and security transformations across the region and the emergence of a new regional order in West Asia. U.S. grand strategy in West Asia has undergone notable adjustments compared to previous years following the events of October 7, 2023.
This study seeks to answer the following central question: What are the principal components of the United States’ grand strategy in West Asia after October 7, 2023, and what position does Iran occupy within this strategic framework? The study advances the hypothesis that the United States, through a temporary yet purposeful re-engagement in the region, has pursued a composite strategy consisting of strong support for Israel, the containment and weakening of Iran and the Axis of Resistance, the prevention of a wider regional conflict, the continuation of efforts toward regional economic and security integration through the expansion of the Abraham Accords, and the limitation of rival powers’ influence—particularly that of China.
The United States appears to be pursuing a regional order based on Arab–Israeli cooperation under American sponsorship, one that marginalizes Iran, prioritizes economic integration and trade, and enables Washington to allocate greater strategic attention to competition with China. This strategy reflects a combination of realist and economic liberal approaches and is designed to weaken Iran’s regional position while simultaneously transferring a greater share of regional security responsibilities to U.S. allies and partners.
Employing a descriptive-analytical methodology, this research examines the major dimensions of U.S. grand strategy in West Asia after October 7, 2023, and analyzes Iran’s place within the evolving regional and international strategic environment.