Gunboat Diplomacy in the 21st Century: A Case Study of the United States- Israel and Iran Conflict (2026)

Abstract

The 2026 conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran represents a contemporary manifestation of gunboat diplomacy, characterized by the strategic use of military force, naval power, and economic coercion to achieve political objectives. This paper critically examines the evolution of gunboat diplomacy in the context of modern international relations, with particular focus on the interplay between coercion and diplomacy in the 2026 war.
Using a qualitative research design and a case study approach, the study analyses the dynamics of military engagement, diplomatic negotiations, and economic sanctions. It argues that while gunboat diplomacy remains a central instrument of statecraft, its application has become increasingly complex due to technological advancements, global interdependence, and evolving legal norms. The findings highlight the risks of escalation, the erosion of multilateralism, and the need for balanced approaches to conflict resolution