Between Faith and Power: The Intersection of Religion and Politics in the U.S.–Iran Conflict

Abstract

The relationship between religion and politics continues to influence contemporary international conflicts, particularly in regions where ideology and state interests overlap. The ongoing tensions between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran demonstrate how religious narratives can shape political discourse, influence public perception, and affect diplomatic relations. Although the conflict is commonly analyzed through geopolitical factors such as nuclear development, military security, sanctions, and regional competition, religious rhetoric increasingly plays an important role in framing political decisions and legitimizing state actions. In the United States, elements of Christian nationalism and providential discourse have occasionally influenced public and political narratives regarding Iran. Meanwhile, Iran’s political system institutionalizes Shi’a Islamic principles within governance through Velayat-e Faqih, making religion a central component of state identity and foreign policy. The conflict is found in both the New Testament of the Bible for Christians and the Surah of the Qur'an for Muslims. This paper investigates the interaction between religion and politics in the contemporary U.S.–Iran conflict by examining political rhetoric, ideological structures, and scholarly literature. The study argues that religion functions both as an authentic ideological influence and as a strategic instrument for mobilizing domestic support and reinforcing political legitimacy. Findings further suggest that the sacralization of geopolitical disputes complicates diplomatic negotiations and prolongs international tensions.