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This article examines the negotiation process initiated between Iran and the United States following the transformation of the popular uprisings that began in Iran in December 2025. Initially framed as a domestic national security issue, these uprisings gradually acquired an international dimension with the involvement of extra-regional actors. The study further analyzes the consequences of the war that subsequently emerged between the two parties and evaluates how this conflict has influenced the security dynamics of the Gulf region. Accordingly, the primary objective of this study is to explore the extent to which the war that began alongside the negotiation process has reshaped regional security structures. In this context, the central research question guiding the study is: What are the effects of the war that began between Iran and the United States on the security dynamics of the Gulf region? The study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis addressing this question.
Popular Uprisings and the Process Leading to Negotiations
The demonstrations that began in Iran on 28 December 2025, following the long-standing economic problems in the country, the gradual deterioration of living conditions, social issues, and the increasing discontent in certain segments of society stemming from the government, attracted the attention of the international community. In a report published on 31 December 2025 titled “We want the mullahs to go: Economic crisis leads to the biggest protests in Iran since 2022”, The Guardian stated that, as a result of significant problems such as the loss of value of Iran’s currency due to sanctions imposed on the Iranian government, the Iranian public initiated demonstrations as a reaction, and the events gradually transformed into a mass movement.
In line with these developments, various reactions containing symbolic and political messages were expressed by the international community at different levels. A statement was issued by the United Nations Human Rights Council indicating that human rights had been violated during the protests in Iran. In a report published by the Parliament of the United Kingdom, it was stated that political support was given to the popular uprisings in Iran and that new sanctions would be imposed on the Iranian administration. In a declaration published by the Council of the European Union, it was explained that the protests were peaceful in nature, yet restrictive measures had been taken. In a statement issued by the United States Congress, support was expressed for the struggle of the Iranian people. Furthermore, the U.S. Congress announced that it had discussed possible scenarios involving the use of military forces against the Iranian government.
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