What are the ideological motives behind Iran's foreign policy? This new study examines Tehran's twin desires to protect national interests and to project real power. Factors determining foreign policy include: -Potential economic leader of the Middle East region -Key player in the oil and gas market -Centre of resistance against global Western domination -US and Israel policy -Syria as the bridge to Lebanon and Palestine Political, economic, religious and cultural aspects of Iran's influence abroad are covered. There is a strong focus on primary sources, as well as interviews with EU, Russian and Middle East experts, supported by field trips to Iran, Turkey and GCC countries.