This thesis analyses the determinants, of Iranian foreign policy towards the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within, the regional sub-system, of the Middle East. Iranian foreign policy approach during two...Show moreThis thesis analyses the determinants, of Iranian foreign policy towards the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within, the regional sub-system, of the Middle East. Iranian foreign policy approach during two regional crises- the- Bahraini and the Yemeni one- varies greatly and raises questions about the rationale of Iranian foreign policy towards Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This research tries to explain why Islamic Republic of Iran chose a militant approach in the Yemeni crisis whilst it opted for a passive approach in the Bahraini crisis. Furthermore, it seeks to discover what is the nature and the causality of Iran’s militant option in Yemen. This work is a qualitative research which use the case study of Yemeni Civil War, as a pattern of analysis. Through the lens of structural realism this research argues that the Iranian foreign policy posture towards Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is defensive in nature, and is aimed at the Iranian state’s survival and security maximization.Show less
Falling oil prices are leading the Saudis to drastic action. While oil funds still provide the state with a sizable income, it is clear that the new Crown Prince imagines a remained importance of...Show moreFalling oil prices are leading the Saudis to drastic action. While oil funds still provide the state with a sizable income, it is clear that the new Crown Prince imagines a remained importance of the state in structuring post-oil development. This thesis explores the potential for a contemporary developmental state to be built up in the oil kingdom. This signifies a departure from the rentier structures that have had the upper hand in the Kingdom, and requires a new kind of state autonomy. The ability for the Saudi Monarchy to adopt this new role is key in the post-oil development of the country. This thesis shows that the transition from rentierism to state-led capitalist development is possible and can be a viable strategy for Saudi Arabia.Show less
