Relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Turkey, as two major regional powers in West Asia, are shaped by complex geopolitical factors defining their patterns of cooperation and competition. Geostrategic location, regional crises, security concerns, influence-seeking, the Kurdish issue, energy corridors, and ties with extra-regional powers constitute the primary variables affecting Tehran–Ankara relations. This study aims to identify and rank these key geopolitical factors using a descriptive-analytical design and a mixed-method approach. Data were gathered through library research, questionnaires, and expert interviews, then analyzed via Friedman and Binomial statistical tests.

The findings indicate that regional crises particularly in Syria, Iraq, and the South Caucasus—alongside the geostrategic position of both countries and their competition for influence, are the most significant geopolitical determinants of bilateral relations. The results demonstrate that while geopolitical rivalries have intensified competition in several arenas, mutual economic interdependence, energy cooperation, and shared security considerations have prevented these rivalries from escalating into direct strategic confrontation. The Kurdish issue remains a persistent and influential factor in bilateral dynamics.

The study concludes that the dominant pattern in Iran–Turkey relations is defined as “cooperative rivalry,” wherein geopolitical competition coexists with economic and security cooperation. The future trajectory of these relations largely depends on the ability of both nations to manage geopolitical tensions through pragmatic regional cooperation and sustained strategic dialogue.