It is crucial to interpret Iran’s recent attacks within a broader context, considering both regional and international dynamics, as they have consequences that impact all Middle Eastern actors.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas enters its second week, regional actors are vying for a mediation role to help de-escalate tensions. One such actor is Turkiye, which maintains relations with both the conflicting parties.

Iran has revealed plans for a free trade zone with Turkiye, with an agreement expected to be signed in the next couple of months.

While the region’s countries have put aside their militarized foreign policies thanks to the normalization climate that is sweeping the Middle East, the clashes in Sudan have reinforced the militarization of politics there, bringing large-scale instability on to the doorstep of key actors.