THE POLICIES OF THE PERSIAN, OTTOMAN, AND RUSSIAN EMPIRES IN THE MIDDLE EAST REGION

Authors

  • Saba Tepnadze Free University of Tbilisi
  • George Katsitadze Free University of Tbilisi

Keywords:

Empire, Middle East, Politics, Balance of Power, Expansion

Abstract

The policies of the Persian, Ottoman, and Russian empires in the Middle East were strategically, militarily, economically and culturally aimed at expanding control and influence over the region, significantly shaping the regional power distribution and the formation of the modern political landscape of the Middle East. The Persian Empire was distinguished by its developed administrative system, religious tolerance and promotion of trade. The article pays special attention to the Persian-Ottoman wars of the 16th and 17th centuries, which had a significant impact on the regional balance of power. The discussion of the Ottoman Empire includes its „golden age,“ Suleiman I’s campaigns in Iran, conquests in Africa, and the empire’s eventual decline. Particular focus is placed on the centuries-long rivalry with Russia, which defined the foreign policy and regional strategy of both empires. Regarding the Russian Empire, the work examines its efforts to control the straits, expand influence in the Caucasus and Iran, and participate in the „Great Game“ with Britain. The concluding section shows that these three empires collectively shaped the geopolitical map of the Middle East, established the foundations of the modern state system, and left a historical legacy whose influence is still evident today in regional conflicts and power relations.

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Published

2026-03-24

How to Cite

Tepnadze, S., & Katsitadze, G. (2026). THE POLICIES OF THE PERSIAN, OTTOMAN, AND RUSSIAN EMPIRES IN THE MIDDLE EAST REGION. Dunya: The Journal of Free University Institute of Asia and Africa, 3, 100–116. Retrieved from https://journals.org.ge/index.php/dunya/article/view/442

Issue

Vol. 3 (2025): Dunya

Section

Articles

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