Containment Or Alignment In Foreign Policy? Analyzing U.S.-Iran Convergence Of Interest In Counterterrorism Diplomacy For Broader Middle Eastern Stability

Author

• Richa Bhattarai, Kennesaw State UniversityFollow

Semester of Graduation

Spring 2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

International Conflict Management

Department

School of Conflict Management, Peacebuilding, and Development

Committee Chair/First Advisor

Dr. Kristina Hook

Second Advisor

Dr. Maia Hallward

Third Advisor

Dr. Charity Butcher

Abstract

The 1979 Iranian Revolution transformed the U.S.–Iran relationship from strategic partnership to enduring hostility, which is largely shaped by differing regional priorities. Despite this persistent divergence, both countries face an evolving threat with terrorism symbolizing an especially destabilizing challenge across the Middle East. Existing scholarship predominantly emphasizes containment and deterrence, often treating the United States and Iranian counterterrorism strategies in isolation. Parallel studies observe various forms of diplomatic engagement as a potential pathway to regional stability. However, little systematic attention is given to the specific conditions under which United States and Iran interests converge in bilateral diplomacy. This dissertation addresses that gap by advancing “counterterrorism diplomacy” as a conceptual framework for understanding the contemporary U.S.-Iran relationship. The central question therefore guiding the study is: Under what conditions are the United States and Iran most likely to converge on counterterrorism diplomacy? To answer this question, the study employs a mixed-methods design by answering four distinct sub-questions to analyze the factors most conducive to diplomatic engagement. By situating U.S.–Iran interactions within these multidimensional analytical lenses, the dissertation contributes to scholarly understanding of the condition under which cooperation is possible despite differing regional position. Beyond advancing the literature on conflict management, this study highlights the potential for conditional cooperation grounded in shared counterterrorism interests, offering practical insights into pathways for enhanced stability in the Middle East.