Strategic Studies Quarterly

Abstract While the US– Syria summit conference failed to contribute to peace negotiations betweenSyriaandIsraelin 2000, the official negotiations restarted indirectly inTurkeyin the Spring of 2008. Since May 19, up to 23 December of 2008, six rounds of negotiations took place and after a short interval, with the Israeli attack onGazathe negotiations stopped unilaterally bySyria. Given the Syrian role as the balancer in the region and as the aim of these negotiations is liberation of theGolan Heights, it is important to consider the trend of negotiations and predict the future. Therefore, the paper aims to survey and consider the foundations and trends as well as complexities of negotiations and finally illustration of the possible impacts of the negotiations on the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Abstract In this paper, the security arrangements and models in thePersian Gulfis discussed from the beginning of its security system along with its triple dimensions. However, it is mentioned that theories of Dependency and Imperialism do not suffice to explain those arrangements and therefore, paying due regard to the dichotomy derived from Realism and Liberalism is needed. In this way, while considering the approaches of theUSAand theUK, the two interventionist power in the region, the author is addressing different understandings of security arrangements by all the actors involved. This paper concludes with the discussion of possible opportunities and options forIranto evolve this system.