Following the September 11 attacks, both Iranian leaders, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Mohammed Khatami, openly denounced the Sunni terrorist group al Qaeda, marking a rare moment of congruence in the region. The Iranian populace showed solidarity by holding vigils for the American victims, demonstrating empathy in a time of tragedy. Additionally, Iran played a supportive role in the U.S.-led coalition operations against the Taliban later that year, highlighting a potential collaborative stance.

In the wake of the Iraq War in Spring 2003, Iran proposed significant discussions with the United States, reflecting a willingness to engage diplomatically. These events underline a complex relationship characterized by moments of both conflict and potential cooperation, illustrating how geography and historical events shape international dynamics in the region, as discussed in Kaplan's work.