Transition from Idealism to Realism: Analyzing Iran’s Diplomacy toward Turkey during Hashemi Rafsanjani’s Era (1989-1997)

Nouri, Nasrin; Rekabi Sharbaf, Javad

doi:10.22034/wasj.2026.575466.1129

Transition from Idealism to Realism: Analyzing Iran’s Diplomacy toward Turkey during Hashemi Rafsanjani’s Era (1989-1997)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

nasrin nouri ¹

Javad rekabi sharbaf ²

¹ University of Tehran, College of World Studies

² University of Tehran

10.22034/wasj.2026.575466.1129

Abstract

The collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War transformed the geopolitical order of the Middle East and Eurasia, opening a new chapter in Iran-Turkey relations. This study seeks to explain the evolution of bilateral ties during the presidency of Hashemi Rafsanjani (1989–1997), addressing the question of how the two neighbors managed to elevate their level of cooperation despite ideological rivalries. Moving beyond purely individual-centered analyses and employing the theoretical framework of “Neoclassical Realism + Political Pragmatism,” the study argues that while “Turkey’s structural need for energy” and “Iran’s need for transit routes” served as the main drivers of the relationship, the diplomatic apparatus of the Reconstruction Era government managed to navigate political obstacles by adopting a “separation of spheres” strategy. Findings indicate that the two sides, through a realistic appreciation of geographical determinism, decoupled competition in Central Asia from the realm of economic cooperation. This approach led to the formation of a form of “interdependence,” culminating in strategic energy agreements a development that signaled the primacy of “national interest” over purely ideological considerations during that historical juncture.

Keywords

Iran-Turkey Relations

Hashemi Rafsanjani

Neoclassical Realism

Foreign Policy

Pragmatism

Energy Diplomacy

Subjects