In his provocative analysis of Soviet goals in Southwest Asia, particularly Iran, Sicker argues that Soviet imperialism in this area exhibits a remarkable consistency from tsarist times to the present. Directly challenging prevailing beliefs of diminished Soviet interest in Iran or the Persian Gulf, Sicker asserts that the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan, their history of interest in the area, and the region's growing geopolitical significance all enhance the probability of a Soviet move to bring Iran into its sphere of influence. Moreover, Sicker demonstrates Soviet goals in the area are long term and are not subject to revision as a consequence of temporary setbacks or a change in Soviet leadership. Students and policymakers will find The Bear and the Lion both a realistic appraisal of the importance of Iran to the Soviet Union and a comprehensive historical analysis of the roots of that interest.

Sicker begins by examining the era of tsarist expansionism, demonstrating that Russia's strategic interest in Iran can be traced back as far as the reign of Peter the Great. He goes on to examine Iran's emerging strategic importance during the 19th century, exploring the geopolitical importance of Iran to the Soviet Union both before and after the discovery of oil there. Subsequent chapters trace during the Second World War, the era of Muhammad Reza Shah, and the Khomieni regime. Based on his analysis, Sicker concludes that Soviet imperialism is very much a reality in the region and that this constitutes a serious threat to the territorial integrity and political independence of Iran, and to U.S. interests in the area.