Post 9/11 Geopolitics of the Middle East and Pakistan-Iran Bilateral Relations

The bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran have always been determined by the interplay of regional dynamics, geopolitics and role of external powers. This paper analyses the current politico-security trends, conflict sites, regional and global geopolitical designs and simultaneous interests of both countries. Apart from their different areas of interest and separate alliance systems, key factors such as interest of regional governments fuelling conflicts and supporting opposition agendas, sectarianism and ideological rivalries have affected their bilateral relations. The future of this relationship lies in strengthening economic cooperation and working together to stop the ingress of the Islamic State.