When Proxies Falter: The Changing Face of Iran’s Regional Influence

For decades, Iran mastered the art of proxy warfare—leveraging non-state actors across the Middle East to expand its influence, deter adversaries, and avoid direct confrontation. But as the region enters a new strategic phase, this once-formidable network is unraveling. From the collapse of key allies to the growing economic burdens of sustaining militias, Iran’s “Axis of Resistance” is facing unprecedented challenges. 

In This commentary, BIPSS Research Assistant Farhana Rasid examines the unraveling of Iran’s regional doctrine, the fallout from its proxies’ failures, and the broader geopolitical shifts redefining power in the Middle East. As diplomacy, state actors, and multipolar competition rise to the forefront, the age of Iranian proxy dominance may be drawing to a close.