RETALIATION AND FOREIGN POLICY: A STUDY OF IRAN-USA RELATIONS SINCE 1953

Abstract

Often, International decision making has been a function of three functionalities or dynamics. These dynamics propel decisions that consequentially nurture actions and in actions, choices and consequences in international arena. These dynamics broadly speaking reveal the positions (of strength or weakness) of the actors which serve as a catalyst to their dominant or weak role. These variables are but not limited to military capabilities, economic viability, and geostrategic location and other considerations that explain causes and course of action and reaction. More still, these variables paint picture of hegemony, resistance, sanctions retaliations. Using the game theory as its analytical tool, the study reveals the reciprocity nature of two actors, one a global powerhouse and the other a regional warlord or mainstay.