Professor of political science at the University of Wisconsin,USA
Abstract
This article explores the evolving dynamics of power politics in the Middle East in the aftermath of the 2023–2025 regional upheavals, including the collapse of the Assad regime, the weakening of Iran’s regional non-state allied partners, and the increasing normalization of Israel among Arab states. Grounded in a realist framework, the paper examines Iran’s recalibration of foreign policy, the strategic fragmentation of the Palestinian movement, and the future of resistance politics in an age of shifting alliances and proxy fatigue. Arguing that ideological postures must adapt to geopolitical realities, the paper evaluates emerging models for conflict resolution and reconsiders the role of Iran as both an ideological and strategic actor. The study concludes that sustainable resistance in the post-2023 landscape must combine realism with principled sovereignty, moving beyond military confrontation toward inclusive regional diplomacy.
Abootalebi,A. R. (2025). Resistance by Other Means; Realpolitik and the Post-2023 Geopolitical Landscape. (e238752). Quarterly Journal of West Asia Political Research, 2(2), e238752
MLA
Abootalebi,A. R. . "Resistance by Other Means; Realpolitik and the Post-2023 Geopolitical Landscape" .e238752 , Quarterly Journal of West Asia Political Research, 2, 2, 2025, e238752.
HARVARD
Abootalebi A. R. (2025). 'Resistance by Other Means; Realpolitik and the Post-2023 Geopolitical Landscape', Quarterly Journal of West Asia Political Research, 2(2), e238752.
CHICAGO
A. R. Abootalebi, "Resistance by Other Means; Realpolitik and the Post-2023 Geopolitical Landscape," Quarterly Journal of West Asia Political Research, 2 2 (2025): e238752,
VANCOUVER
Abootalebi A. R. Resistance by Other Means; Realpolitik and the Post-2023 Geopolitical Landscape. West Asia Political Research, 2025; 2(2): e238752.
