Introduction
Energy security, as a cornerstone of national security, plays a critical role in the domestic and foreign policies of both energy-producing and consuming countries. Iran, one of the world's largest holders of oil and gas reserves, relies on global energy markets to generate revenue and assert its geopolitical influence. On the other hand, the United States, through diverse energy policies, has consistently aimed to reshape global energy markets. This article investigates the impact of U.S. energy policies, including sanctions and renewable energy developments, on Iran's energy security.
This study employs the theoretical framework of complex interdependence, which posits that international interactions in economic, political, and social domains simultaneously lead to interdependence and competition. In the energy sector, this interdependence manifests in the relationships between producers, consumers, and intermediaries. Within this framework, Iran's energy security depends not only on its production and export capacity but also on the policies of consumer countries and influential actors such as the United States.
Materials and Methods
This study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing data from credible international and domestic sources. Statistics and reports from organizations such as the International Energy Agency (IEA), OPEC, and Iran's Ministry of Petroleum were analyzed to assess the effects of U.S. energy policies on various aspects of Iran's energy security.

Discussion & Result
1. U.S. Energy Policies
In recent decades, the United States has implemented policies to reduce its dependence on Persian Gulf oil and weaken energy-producing countries like Iran. Key aspects of these policies include:

Economic sanctions: Aimed at limiting Iran's ability to access global markets and reducing its oil revenues.
Renewable energy development: By investing heavily in renewable energy and shale oil production, the U.S. has indirectly reduced global demand for Persian Gulf oil.

2. Impact on Iran's Oil and Gas Exports
U.S. sanctions have drastically reduced Iran's oil exports from approximately 2.5 million barrels per day in 2017 to less than 200,000 barrels per day in 2020. This sharp decline in exports has significantly constrained Iran’s foreign exchange earnings and its ability to invest in energy infrastructure.
3. Changing Iran’s Role in Global Markets
Once a major energy supplier to Asian markets, Iran has lost a substantial share of its market to other countries due to sanctions. For instance:

Saudi Arabia and Iraq have replaced Iran in key Asian markets, particularly in China and India.
According to OPEC reports, Saudi oil exports to China increased by approximately 20% between 2018 and 2020, while Iranian exports to the same market plummeted.

4. Domestic Economic Pressures
Sanctions and restrictions on oil sales have caused significant economic challenges for Iran:

Iran’s oil revenues decreased from $53 billion in 2017 to less than $8 billion in 2020, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
This financial strain has limited Iran’s ability to invest in new projects and expand its production capacity.

5. Domestic Challenges in the Energy Sector

Dependence on domestic consumption: A large portion of Iran's oil and gas production is allocated to domestic consumption, reducing export capacity.
Lack of renewable energy development: Renewable energy accounts for less than 1% of Iran's total energy production, reflecting insufficient attention to this area.


Conclusion
This study demonstrates that U.S. energy policies have had profound effects on Iran's energy security. These impacts include reduced oil and gas exports, the replacement of Iran in global markets, and intensified domestic economic pressures. However, Iran can take several steps to reduce its vulnerabilities and enhance its energy security:

Diversification of export markets: Expanding relations with Asian and African countries.
Investment in renewable energy: Developing solar and wind resources to reduce reliance on oil revenues.
Strengthening energy diplomacy: Collaborating with organizations like OPEC and forming strategic alliances.
Reforming domestic energy structures: Reducing domestic consumption and improving production efficiency.