In the complex landscape of Middle Eastern unrest, Iran plays a significant role due to its Shi'ite majority and Persian heritage, distinguishing it from the predominantly Arab nations. Iran wields tremendous influence over the Iraqi Shi'a and is deeply invested in the formation of the Iraqi government, determined to prevent the rise of another Sunni-dominated Iraq after the devastating war initiated by a Sunni-led Iraq against it. Additionally, Iran supports Hezbollah, a militant Shi'ite group based in Lebanon, and uses it to further its regional objectives, as seen in the incursion into Israel that coincided with international discussions on Iran's nuclear program, effectively diverting attention from the issue. This support for Hezbollah also stirs concern among Sunni nations, who fear Iran's growing power as a potential regional hegemon, highlighting the broader Sunni/Shi'a divide that contributes to ongoing instability in the region.

In the context of Middle Eastern dynamics, Iran plays a significant role in the region's tensions. Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, has taken a firm stance against Iran, particularly evident in military and diplomatic actions. Shortly after the prince assumed control of defense, Saudi Arabia launched a major military intervention in neighboring Yemen, which is supported by Iran. Additionally, in June, the kingdom imposed a blockade on Qatar, a Persian Gulf rival, for its diplomatic engagements with Iran and Islamist groups. These actions underscore the ongoing rivalry and the complex interplay of power in the region.

Russia's recent activities in the Middle East demonstrate its willingness to foster chaos to keep other powers, specifically the U.S., off-balance. The Russians built Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant, yet, despite being contractually obligated to supply nuclear fuel for it, they will probably never complete the project because an operational Bushehr would undercut Russia's options and influence in the area. Russia has dragged its feet to remain a core player in this drama, with the project's original completion date set for 1999 and the reactor core functional since 2004. Russia is best served by appearing to give Iran an ace in the hole, yet keeping it perpetually out of reach, making Russia an essential middleman who cannot be ignored.