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About Me

My research focuses on the intersection of geopolitics and identity-framed local conflicts, with an emphasis on Iran and its relations with neighbors. Currently, I am exploring the role of individual and group identity in terrorism and radicalization processes.

  • Ph.D., Political Science, UCLA (Dec 2014)
  • Master of International Affairs, Columbia University (May 2007)

Languages: Spanish, Persian, German, Italian

Email: Nathan.Gonzalez.3@us.af.mil

Selected Articles/Chapters

“Toward a New Typology of Sunni Jihad,” Studies in Conflict & Terrorism 43, no. 12 (2020)

“Iran’s Maritime Aims: Persistent Approach, Changing Capabilities,” in Howard M. Hensel and Amit Gupta, eds, Naval Powers in the Indian Ocean and the Western Pacific (London: Routledge, 2018)

“The Heteromation of Terrorism: Artificial Intelligence and the Rise of the Bots,” The National Interest (March 9, 2018)

“The Coming U.S.-Iranian Partnership: A Historic Nuclear Deal and a Glimpse into the Not-So-Distant Future,” Georgetown Journal of International Affairs (Spring 2016)

“More Ethnic than Religious: How the Islamic State Uses Religion to Attract Allies,” Salon (November 20, 2015)

(With Elliot Hen-Tov) “The Militarization of Post-Khomeini Iran: Praetorianism 2.0,” The Washington Quarterly (Winter 2011)

(With Elliot Hen-Tov) “The Other Side of the Militarization of Iran’s Regime,” Foreign Policy (December 21, 2010)

Books

The Sunni-Shia Conflict: Understanding Sectarian Violence in the Middle East (Orange County, CA: Nortia Press, 2009)

Engaging Iran: The Rise of a Middle East Powerhouse and America’s Strategic Choice (Westport, CT: Praeger, 2007)