The present article considers the possibility of application of the theory of neo-realism for analyzing the foreign policy of the I. R. of Iran. The main question is to see if the theory of neo-realism has the capacity and capability of explaining the motivations, goal-setting, decision-making and practice of Iran in its foreign policy approaches?
The initial answer is that it would be possible to explain the goals, motives, decisions and practice of the Islamic Republic of Iran in its foreign policy by the logic and concepts of neo-realism theory. The paper concludes, however, that this theory, like other theories of international relations, does not possess the full capacity and competence to analyze and justify all aspects of foreign policy of the I. R. Iran.  Although in many aspects of its foreign policy Iran has proved to be a rationally realist actor, the aspirations emanating from the discourse of the Islamic Revolution introduce some elements of idealism in its practice. That is what might be called 'idealist realism'.