Knowledge Tree
Relations (1)
related 3.00 — strongly supporting 4 facts
Iran and the Islamic State are linked through their roles as regional adversaries, with Iran actively supporting militias to counter the Islamic State in Iraq [1] and viewing the group as a radical threat {fact:2, fact:3}. Furthermore, both entities are central to U.S. regional strategy, which seeks to simultaneously contain Iranian influence and conduct operations against the Islamic State {fact:1, fact:7}.
Facts (4)
Sources
An Integrated U.S. Strategy to Address Iran's Nuclear and Regional ... carnegieendowment.org 4 facts
claimIf American-supported forces retake the border crossing between Anbar and Deir Ezzor Provinces from the Islamic State, they would cut off Iranian transit options, though the terrain remains inhospitable for Shia militia groups regardless of who holds it.
accountSince the U.S. drawdown from Iraq in 2011, the United States has maintained a force presence of roughly 30,000–40,000 troops in the Middle East to conduct missions such as operations against the Islamic State, ensure freedom of navigation in the Gulf, and deter destabilizing Iranian behavior.
claimIran's regional strategy centers on countering the United States and Israel, but it has increasingly focused on competition with Saudi Arabia, which Iran blames for the rise of Sunni radical groups like the Islamic State.
claimMost major countries, excluding the United States, Israel, and Saudi Arabia, view Iran as a stable regional power and a tactical ally against radical Sunni jihadists like the Islamic State.