Threatening and Opportunity-Creating Factors of Iranian Arabs Residing in the Southwest on the Territorial Integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Articles in Press

Document Type : *

Authors

seyed Kazem Amini ziabari

morteza pourjafari

supreme national defense university

10.22067/pg.2026.97536.1431

Abstract

Abstract:
The present study was conducted with the aim of examining the threatening and opportunity-creating factors related to Iranian Arabs residing in the southwest and their effects on the territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This descriptive–analytical study first employed in-depth interviews with a group of experts. Based on the exploratory concepts extracted from these interviews, questionnaires were designed and subsequently validated in terms of reliability and validity by the same group of experts. Ultimately, the factors affecting territorial integrity were categorized into four dimensions: political, military–security, cultural–social, and economic. Analysis of the questionnaire results indicated that the economic dimension had the lowest mean score and was therefore regarded as a threat to territorial integrity. In contrast, the political, cultural–social, and military–security dimensions obtained higher scores and were considered opportunities. The final aggregation of questionnaire scores suggested that these ethnic groups represent an opportunity overall, despite existing concerns, particularly in the economic sphere. The results of Pearson’s correlation test demonstrated relationships and correlations among the aforementioned dimensions. Finally, in order to strengthen territorial integrity, it is recommended that extensive economic investments be made in the region to facilitate the development of economic infrastructure and employment opportunities for Arab youth. In addition, expanding the role and participation of Arabs in political structures can contribute to enhancing territorial integrity.

Keywords

Arab ethnic groups

territorial integrity

ethnicity

Islamic Republic of Iran

Subjects

• Political Geography

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