As the world undergoes rapid political and economic transformations with escalating conflicts shaking the Middle East, the region has witnessed a full year of genocide in Gaza – and no clear prospect for an end.
The conflict has expanded to southern Lebanon, reverberated in Yemen and Iraq, and reached Iran.
The Future of the Middle East series seeks to explore these challenges through interviewing prominent politicians, theorists, intellectuals, and current and former diplomats, providing various regional and international perspectives.
Through these discussions and insights, lessons from the past are shared in order to chart a path forward.
From the roots of the Arab-Israeli conflict to regional interventions and the rise of new non-state actors, this series engages in enlightened discussions regarding what can be learned from history and how it will impact the region’s future.
It aims to explore visions for the future and highlight the vital role that Arab nations can play if historical alliances are revived, pushing towards sustainable stability while safeguarding their interests.
The structure of the series involves two parts – the first being a series of seven fixed questions based on requests from readers on the future of the region. The second part features questions tailored to the interviewees specific background, providing new insights into the overarching vision of the interview.
Ultimately, this series aims to explore how the Arab region can craft its own unified independent project – one free of external influence.
Who is Kamal Kharrazi?
One of the strategic minds behind Iran’s foreign policy over the past few decades and a senior advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Kamal Kharrazi has played a key role in handling Iran’s nuclear issue.
In an exclusive interview with Al-Masry Al-Youm, the former Iranian Foreign Minister and current Head of Iran’s Strategic Council on Foreign Relations shared his vision for the future of the Middle East.
He spoke within the context of deep mistrust towards what he called America’s “exploitative and hostile” policies in the region.
Kharrazi warned against Trump’s proposal to seize control of Gaza, cautioning that yielding to the ambitions of the “greedy real estate dealer”—as he referred to the US president—would only lead to further illegitimate American demands in the region.
He also underscored the importance of Iranian-Arab relations, describing the restoration of ties between Tehran and Riyadh as a “vital step” that should be strengthened and built upon.
On Iran’s Role in the Region
Kharrazi has dismissed claims that Iran has a hidden agenda in the Arab world, calling it “an American fabrication.”
He argued that the West, which implanted the Zionist entity in the region to justify its interference, views Iran as a thorn in its side.Consequently, he said, Western powers fuel “artificial conflicts” to keep the region distracted.
He also asserted that Iran’s support for the Palestinian resistance has exposed the fallacy of the “Shia Crescent” narrative.
On US Hegemony and Regional Cooperation
Kharrazi rejects US global dominance, stating that “a world order controlled by Washington cannot achieve security.” He called for the establishment of a regional cooperation mechanism among Middle Eastern countries to address shared challenges.
Regarding the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he argued that the Zionist project based on expansion from the Nile to the Euphrates is not merely rhetoric but a serious and systematic plan.
While Iran advocates for a one-state solution in Palestine, Israel rejects it because it would end the apartheid and its occupation.
The term “Middle East” is a colonial geographical expression, yet it has become the dominant way to describe the region that includes Arab states, Iran, Turkey, and others. Throughout history, this region has suffered from conflicts rooted in colonial schemes, making it a constant hotspot on the global map.
How do you assess the region’s current reality and the role of history in shaping it?
• West Asia, or the Middle East, has always been a target for colonial powers, whether due to its vast energy resources or its historical significance as the cradle of civilizations.
These powers have consistently sought to dominate the region. The Sykes-Picot Agreement, which divided the Middle East into smaller states, was part of this ongoing strategy, as was their interference in regional affairs.
The creation of Israel, the Zionist entity, served a dual purpose: first, to rid Europe of its “Jewish problem” by relocating Jewish populations to Palestine, and second, to plant a “cancerous tumor” in the region to destabilize it and justify foreign intervention
The term “Middle East” first appeared in the writings of American strategist Alfred Mahan in 1902, and later, Condoleezza Rice spoke of a “New Middle East.” This vision seems to be materializing amid the current Israeli war on Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.
What do you make of this, especially in light of Trump’s victory and the rise of right-wing forces in the US, coupled with his plan to annex Gaza for Tel Aviv and Washington at the expense of the Palestinians?
•The US and Europe will never relinquish their grip on the region. Their strategy of stirring conflicts, destabilization, and igniting wars facilitates their interventions.
Trump’s recent statements about seizing Gaza’s Mediterranean coast are yet another manifestation of Washington’s endless greed.
What role should regional powers, especially Egypt and Saudi Arabia, play in countering these schemes?
• Colonial powers seek to keep Middle Eastern nations dependent on them—economically, politically, and militarily—ensuring that the region remains under their control.
The Islamic world expects Egypt and Saudi Arabia to resist foreign pressures and protect regional interests.
Despite Israel’s clear expansionist ambitions—evident in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria—there is no unified Arab project to counter them. How can Arabs formulate a strategic response?
• Unfortunately, as you mentioned, there is no unified Arab strategy to confront Israeli expansionism.
Some Arab states have normalized relations with Israel, emboldening its ambitions. Meanwhile, the Arab League remains reactive rather than proactive.
Historically, Egypt has played a pivotal role in the region. How can it reclaim that role despite the challenges it faces?
• Egypt, as a key regional power, has the potential to revitalize the Arab League and shift it from passivity to proactive engagement against Israel’s aggression.
How should the region navigate the global shift toward multipolarity and avoid dependence on a single world power that has historically exploited its resources?
• The Middle East, given its strategic importance, must position itself as a significant player in the emerging multipolar world order.
Establishing a regional cooperation framework—encompassing both Arab and non-Arab nations, including Iran—would enable the region to act as a unified entity on the global stage.
How do you envision the future of the region amid ongoing conflicts and external threats?
• Foreign interference will persist, but so will the resistance of Middle Eastern nations—particularly the Palestinian struggle against Israeli occupation. However, true sovereignty requires regional leaders to boldly reject foreign interventions.
With Trump blending capitalism with populist right-wing politics, what do you foresee for America’s policy toward the Middle East and Iran?
• Trump is a greedy capitalist who views the world as real estate to be seized. His ambitions will only escalate unless the region presents a unified front to curb his excesses.
What are the latest developments in Egypt-Iran relations, and how can both countries work toward regional stability?
• Iran and Egypt are grand nations with deep-rooted histories. Establishing political ties depends on the will of their leaders, and discussions are currently underway.
Some believe that Iran has lost its influence in the region. Your response?
• The perception that Iran has lost its influence is incorrect. The narrative of a “weak Iran,” promoted by the Zionist entity, is untrue. The Islamic Republic of Iran, as an independent power in West Asia, has managed to challenge major global powers and defend itself.
Naturally, this stands as proof of Iran’s strength and influence.
Iranian Vice President Dr. Javad Zarif has proposed an initiative regarding Iran’s relations with Arab countries. Does this imply a regional alliance, or something else? What are the key opportunities and challenges facing this initiative?
• Dr. Zarif’s initiative was not about forming a confederation of regional states; rather, it was a proposal for goodwill and friendship among the countries of the region.
I have also spoken about the importance and necessity of establishing a mechanism capable of coordinating comprehensive cooperation between regional states in areas such as security, politics, and the economy—despite the differences in their governance systems.
We believe that such a mechanism is essential in facing common challenges.
Saudi Arabia recently conducted joint exercises in the Arabian Sea with Iranian participation, and the Saudi Chief of Staff visited Tehran. Are we witnessing an “Arab-Iranian” rapprochement in light of recent regional developments? How do you address major points of contention, such as Yemen and Syria?
• The restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as mediated by China, was one of the wiser decisions taken by the leaders of both countries.
This development was not only beneficial for Iran and Saudi Arabia but also for the entire region.
The resumption of political ties should lead to comprehensive cooperation, particularly in economic, security, and military domains. Iran and Saudi Arabia are two major powers in this region, and their cooperation can have significant regional and global implications.
Of course, there may be differences in viewpoints.
While disagreements between states over certain issues are natural, it is crucial to focus on shared objectives and mutual interests, seeking ways to consolidate efforts and enhance cooperation rather than emphasizing disputes.
Do you believe that Israel’s expansionist ambitions will stop at the Palestinian borders or a buffer zone with southern Lebanon, or will they extend to other Arab countries? What are the risks of its hegemonic ambitions in the Middle East, both economically and technologically?
• The Zionist policy of expanding occupied territories “from the Nile to the Euphrates” is a confirmed and serious strategy, not a matter of speculation.
The actions taken by Israel and the US to seize control of Gaza and forcibly displace Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan are part of the groundwork for implementing this strategy.
Israel is economically and technologically dependent on Western support. It seeks to showcase its technological superiority to encourage regional states to normalize relations through the promise of technology transfer.
Unfortunately, these states do not turn to Iran for access to advanced technology, despite Iran’s significant scientific achievements. There is a need to strengthen regional cooperation in this regard.
Do you believe it is time to reassess agreements made with Israel, especially in light of its expansionist ambitions?
• Absolutely. Israel does not abide by its commitments. Whenever it sees an opportunity, it reneges on its agreements and pursues expansionist goals. The fate of the Oslo Accords is a clear example of this.
Iran is often portrayed as a threat to Arab states. How do you view this narrative?
• The USand Israel have invested heavily in promoting fear of Iran. The concept of the “Shia Crescent,” which emerged after the US invasion of Iraq—instigated by them and, regrettably, by an Arab leader—was part of a psychological warfare campaign against Iran.
The goal was to push regional countries toward normalizing ties with Israel.
However, Iran’s unwavering support for Palestinian resistance groups, most of which are Sunni, has debunked the “Shia Crescent” myth and exposed its falsehood.
How do you assess Israel’s efforts to eliminate resistance movements and occupy Arab lands?
• Resistance is an ideology and a method of struggle. While it may suffer setbacks during conflicts, it cannot be eradicated. Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, and Ansar Allah cannot be destroyed, and Israel has failed in its attempt to eliminate Hamas.
It is true that resistance movements have lost key leaders in recent wars, but new leaders will emerge to continue the struggle. The massive turnout at Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral demonstrated that resistance is a deeply rooted idea in the consciousness of people who reject occupation.
How does Iran respond to international accusations that it destabilizes the region?
• Iran has not attacked any country in the past two or three centuries; rather, it has consistently defended itself.
Iran’s military strength is for self-defense and to support those who seek its assistance. Naturally, this reality does not sit well with powers that aim to secure their colonial interests in the region. Therefore, they resort to these accusations.
Can anyone seriously claim that Israel is not the primary source of instability in the Middle East, while Iran— which supports the struggles of oppressed nations against US hegemony and Israeli aggression—is somehow the real threat?
There are rumors that US pressure is mounting on Qatar to expel Hamas leaders. What is your take on this? If these pressures persist, which capitals might host them?
• The US and Israel are indeed pressuring Qatar to expel Hamas political leaders from Doha.
Despite the rumors on the matter, nothing is confirmed yet. What matters most is that Hamas’ struggle continues in the occupied territories, led by commanders on the battlefield.
The political leaders based in Doha or other capitals play a supportive role for the fighters on the ground.
How do you see the deaths of Yahya Sinwar and Hassan Nasrallah?
• Hassan Nasrallah and Yahya Sinwar were not afraid of martyrdom – they were prepared for it at any moment. Anyone who chooses this path does not fear death. Their commitment to their cause, courage, and steadfastness have earned them a place in the hearts of their supporters and all freedom-loving people.
The video of Yahya Sinwar’s final moments, fighting until his last breath, exposed Israel’s lies. He was not hiding in tunnels or command rooms—he was personally fighting alongside his fellow resistance fighters.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Al-Masry Al-Youm that he supports a one-state solution. Do you think Israel would accept this, and will Iran engage in peace efforts?
• Yes, we firmly believe in the one-state solution. Of course, Israel will never accept it, as it would dismantle its apartheid system and establish a state based on the will of the land’s original inhabitants—Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike.
Even if Israel refuses to acknowledge this idea, we must continue advocating for it. Encouragingly, support for the one-state solution has grown following Israel’s brutal crimes against Palestinians—crimes that go beyond just the apartheid.
What is your assessment of the current international order? Is it responsible for the state of the region?
• The current international order, dominated by the US, is incapable of ensuring global security and stability. America’s actions have shown that whenever the system does not serve its interests, Washington actively undermines it.
For example, the US withdrew from UNESCO, the World Health Organization, and the Paris Climate Agreement, and even opposed the International Criminal Court when it issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders.
What about the United Nations?
• The UN has become ineffective in defending the rights of its member states.
Its decisions are dictated by major powers, and its Secretary-General lacks the authority to enforce General Assembly resolutions, particularly when they contradict US interests.
Some believe that Netanyahu is trying to drag Iran into a direct war with Israel. What is your comment?
• The Zionist entity has always sought to drag the US into a war against Iran.
However, due to its other priorities and past failures in Afghanistan and Iraq, Washington is reluctant to engage in a new confrontation with Iran.
For its part, Iran does not seek to expand the scope of war in the region. However, if a regional war is imposed on it, neither American bases in the region nor the countries that participate or cooperate with Washington in a war against Iran will be spared from its devastating strikes.
Iran sees such a scenario as serving Zionist interests and believes it is not in the best interest of the region.
Some believe that the US and Israel intend to overthrow the Iranian regime as part of the Israeli-American intelligence plan known as the “Clean Break.” What is your comment?
• If they were capable of overthrowing the Islamic Republic of Iran, they would have done so already. They have employed every possible means to achieve this goal, yet they have failed at every turn.
They attempted a failed coup at the beginning of the revolution, and even the most severe sanctions imposed by the US and Europe did not force Iran into submission.
Likewise, America’s “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran ended in resounding failure.
They have also supported unrest in Iran, hoping to bring down the political system, but they have achieved nothing.
The reason behind this failure is that the majority of the Iranian people support their Islamic Revolution.
The spirit of independence and resistance against foreign domination runs deep in their veins. You have seen, and will continue to witness, the people’s support during the anniversaries of the Islamic Revolution’s victory.
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