Iranian Politicians’ and Academics’ Views on the Strategic Partnership Between Iran and Russia

Introduction. Iranian politicians and academics describe the current relations between Iran and Russia in various ways. Research on the nature of the relationship between the two countries has produced conflicting findings and results. This research aimed to explore the perceptions of Iranian politicians and academics regarding the feasibility of forming a strategic partnership between Iran and Russia and to explain the reasons behind their similarities and differences. Methods and materials. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted using purposive, non-probability sampling among 30 respondents, including politicians and academics, from July to September 2024. The in-depth interviews were coded using an inductive method. Using thematic analysis, these codes were identified based on superficially shared meanings and constant comparison, categorized into themes and sub-themes, and then interpreted. Analysis. Two themes emerged in the interviewees’ perceptions: the first saw a strategic partnership as possible. It was divided into two sub-themes: supporters and opponents of the realization of this partnership so far. The second theme perceived a strategic partnership between the two countries as impossible. It was divided into two sub-themes regarding the feasibility of alternative names for this relationship, such as alliances or strategic cooperation. Results. The researcher concluded that the different perceptions within Iran’s political and academic circles stemmed from politicians’ pragmatism and greater sensitivity to Iran’s interests in maintaining good relations with Russia under international sanctions. However, due to their more independent and deeper understanding of empirical evidence and greater distance from policymaking centers, academics of Iran primarily did not consider a strategic partnership with Russia feasible.