"An inspired and original treatment of the ethics of war in the Islamic tradition, with particular regard to Shi'i and Iranian views on this subject. Mahallati's work will be particularly welcomed by readers interested in discussions of jihad in the modern period." -- Roy P. Mottahedeh, Gurney Professor of History, Harvard University "The literature on the Islamic ethics of war and peace has grown steadily in recent years. But overwhelmingly these works have focused on Sunni Islam. By focusing on Shi'ism and contemporary Iranian thought in this important new book, Dr. Mahallati helps fill a critical gap at just the right time. He gives us the insights of not only a scholar but also a diplomat and litterateur deeply immersed in his nation's culture and history." -- Sohail H. Hashmi, Professor of International Realtions, Mount Holyoke College "The study underscores the importance of understanding the Iranian political theology and culture on Iranian terms rather than allowing hegemonic episteme determine the validity of Iranian claims about the development of peaceful nuclear energy." -- Abdulaziz Sachedina, IIIT Chair in Islamic Studies, George Mason University

Nearly four decades after a revolution, experiencing one of the longest wars in contemporary history, facing political and ideological threats by regional radicals such as ISIS and the Taliban, and having succeeded in negotiations with six world powers over her nuclear program, Iran appears as an experienced Muslim country seeking to build bridges with its Sunni neighbours as well as with the West.

Ethics of War and Peace in Iran and Shi’i Islam explores the wide spectrum of theoretical approaches and practical attitudes concerning the justifications, causes and conduct of war in Iranian-Shi‘i culture. By examining primary and secondary sources, and investigating longer lasting factors and questions over circumstantial ones, Mohammed Jafar Amir Mahallati seeks to understand modern Iranian responses to war and peace. His work is the first in its field to look into the ethics of war and peace in Iran and Shi'i Islam. It provides a prism through which the binary source of the Iranian national and religious identity informs Iranian response to modernity. By doing so, the author reveals that a syncretic and civilization-conscious soul in modern Iran is re-emerging.

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‘Highly recommended.’

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‘This book breaks new ground in our understanding of Iran because it aids Western leaders and policymakers comprehend Iran past and present.’