Geopolitical implications of Israel's presence in the IMEC Corridor for Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Seyed Ali Nejat

PhD student in Regional Studies, Middle East orientation, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Tehran, Iran.

10.22067/irlip.2026.92460.1644

Abstract

Countries are taking steps to exploit geopolitical opportunities to increase their power and international position, and corridors play a decisive role in this regard. Corridors are one of the important areas of transition and transformation in the global geometry of power, which have a direct impact on the interests and national security of countries. This has doubled the importance of corridors as a power component for regional and international actors. In this regard, during the 2023 G20 summit held in New Delhi, the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor, abbreviated as "IMEC", was announced. The goal of this multifaceted economic corridor, which includes multiple shipping, railway, and road networks, is to create a continuous trade route with the aim of connecting India to Europe through the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and ultimately Israel. Using a descriptive-analytical method and relying on library and electronic resources, the present study seeks to answer the question of what challenges and consequences Israel's presence and role in the emerging IMEC corridor have for Iran's national interests and security? In response to this question, the author tests the hypothesis that the activation of the IMEC corridor with the participation of Israel is a clear example of a geopolitical alliance and competition to isolate and weaken Iran's heartland position, which will bring numerous economic and security challenges to Iran. The research findings also indicate that the activation of the IMEC corridor provides a strategic opportunity for Israel to integrate into the region, escape from geopolitical and geoeconomic isolation, and enhance its political and security position in the Middle East. This poses a serious threat to Iran's national security and geopolitical and geostrategic position.

Keywords

Iran

Israel

IMEC Corridor

geopolitical competition

rival corridors

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