Iran: Nuclear Fears and Political Instability

The next month will be a critical one for the Islamic Republic of Iran, as the crisis over the February 20 parliamentary elections threatens to destabilize a country at the core of international concern about nuclear proliferation.

Iran is poised on the edge of a period of increased political instability with the emergence of a new style of reform movement. This movement has become increasingly radicalized over the past few years by the maneuverings of the country’s hardline conservatives and has been energized by the disqualification of some 2500 parliamentary candidates by the conservative Council of Guardians in recent weeks.

The Center for American Progress asked Dr. Ray Takeyh, a professor at the National Defense University and an expert on Iran, to analyze these developments and discuss policy options for the United States. In his, "Iran: The New Reformists," Dr. Takeyh explores the internal balance of power between conservatives and reformists and looks at the nature and characteristics of the new reformers. He posits that the United States must temper its rhetoric and “integrate Iran into the international economy and global society” if it is to support positive change in the country.

In an earlier companion piece, "U.S. Policy and the Iranian Nuclear Question," Takeyh proposes that the United States maximize the positive step created by Tehran’s decision to accept IAEA inspections.