Iran appears to be pursuing an assertive foreign policy that confronts the U.S. on a variety of points: the Middle East peace process, the stability of moderate Muslim states, terrorism, security in the Persian Gulf, and nuclear proliferation. However, its intentions are by no means clear. This document discusses these issues. Contents: domestic politics and strategic intentions (Iran's foreign policy and internal crisis); Russia and Iran; Iran's military intentions and capabilities (Iran's strategic aims and constraints, assessment of Iran's military buildup).