Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Professor, Department of Political Science and International Relations, University of Isfahan

2 PhD Student of International Relations, University of Gilan

Abstract

           Israel’s doctrine of periphery alliance has always functioned as a means to higher security, development of economic relations, and also counteracting the isolation of its government in the region. By finding the regional condition as not satisfactory, Israel has attempted to compensate for its isolation through relations with peripheral governments. Within several decades this doctrine has preserved its form; however, following the middle east transformation in 2011, the periphery doctrine has gained a new content and form ever since and Israel tries to add new regions and countries to its classic agenda. A region that has an outstanding role in the new alliance is Central Asia and the Caucasus. Among Central Asian countries, Kazakhstan is very important for Israel due to its significant political and economic role in the region. The purpose of this research is to analyze the nature and mechanism of Israel’s new doctrine of periphery alliances and its aims in the region after 2011 transformations. This study intends to answer the question that what are the main reasons and motivations of Israel in getting involved in Central Asia and strengthening relationships with countries such as Kazakhstan? The findings indicate that in the new doctrine of periphery alliances, Israel looks beyond the reach of Middle East and in this status, regions and countries that could drag Israel out of the regional political and economic isolation are undeniably important. Central Asia, with its strategic and geopolitical significance and also its economic potentials, can offer what Israel needs.    

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