Discussions surrounding Iran’s regional security role took center stage at the Doha Forum 2025 yesterday, with key stakeholders outlining perspectives on stability, dialogue, and future cooperation. The session, titled “Iran and the Changing Regional Security Environment,” brought together officials from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Iran, alongside international policy experts, to address ongoing tensions and potential pathways for de-escalation. Held in Doha, Qatar, the forum aims to foster discussions on global challenges, with a particular focus on the Middle East.
The meeting featured GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, and Nathalie Tocci, Director of the Institute of International Affairs in Italy. Moderated by Dr. Trita Parsi, Executive Vice-President of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, the session explored complex issues impacting the Persian Gulf and wider region. Experts suggest this dialogue is particularly important given current geopolitical instability.
The Evolving Dynamics of Iran and Regional Security
AlBudaiwi emphasized the GCC’s desire for a stable and prosperous Iran, stating that member states do not seek the nation’s collapse. This sentiment represents a significant shift in rhetoric, as previous statements have often focused on concerns regarding Iran’s ballistic missile program and support for regional proxies. The GCC’s economic success, having become the world’s ninth-largest economy over the past decades, positions them to offer potential development assistance to Iran, fostering greater interdependence.
Zarif, for his part, highlighted Iran’s historical resilience in overcoming crises. He reiterated Iran’s longstanding commitment to diplomatic engagement, recalling his 2017 proposal for a Regional Dialogue Forum (RDF). This forum, based on principles outlined in the UN Charter, including good neighborliness, non-interference, and peaceful dispute resolution, aimed to establish a more comprehensive and institutionalized dialogue with regional actors.
GCC’s Perspective on Regional Stability
The GCC has consistently called for a more inclusive security architecture in the region, involving all stakeholders. According to recent reports from the Council, the focus is on addressing shared challenges like maritime security, counter-terrorism, and economic cooperation. They believe that a stable Iran is crucial for overall regional stability, but stress the need for reciprocal actions regarding concerns over Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities.
Iran’s Proposal for a Regional Dialogue
Zarif underscored the importance of moving beyond ad-hoc discussions to a more structured and permanent framework. The proposed RDF would provide a platform for addressing deeply rooted issues and building trust amongst regional rivals. He argued that institutionalizing dialogue is essential for preventing misunderstandings and miscalculations that could escalate tensions. This proposal aligns with broader international efforts to encourage de-escalation in the Middle East.
The discussion also touched upon the ongoing efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal. While both sides acknowledged the challenges, there seemed to be a shared understanding of the need to find a way forward. The success of these efforts is seen as fundamentally linked to the broader question of regional security cooperation.
Meanwhile, observers note that complex relationships between Iran and other regional powers, including Saudi Arabia, remain a key factor shaping the security landscape. Recent diplomatic breakthroughs, such as the Saudi-Iran detente brokered by China, signal a potential for a new era of engagement. However, the long-term impact of these initiatives is still uncertain.
Additionally, the session addressed the role of external actors in the region’s security dynamics. The United States’ presence and policies, as well as the involvement of other global powers, were acknowledged as significant influences. The participants emphasized the importance of a multilateral approach to resolving regional conflicts and preventing further escalation.
Looking ahead, the next step will likely involve further consultations between the GCC and Iran to explore the feasibility of establishing a more formalized dialogue mechanism. The timeframe for such an initiative is unclear, and its success hinges on overcoming numerous obstacles, including ongoing mistrust and divergent geopolitical interests. Continued monitoring of the JCPOA negotiations and the evolving dynamics between Iran and its neighbors will be critical in assessing the path towards lasting peace and security in the region. The Doha Forum website offers further details on upcoming discussions.
Analysts will be watching for concrete steps towards implementing the RDF proposal, and for indications of increased cooperation on issues of common concern. The medium-term outlook for Iran’s regional security role remains uncertain, dependent on both internal political developments within Iran and its interactions with key regional and international stakeholders. Any progress in Iran’s regional security is closely tied to broader Middle East politics and the global nuclear proliferation agenda.