Abstract SE Iran is the site of a rare case of young transition between subduction and collision. We have synthesized recent results in geodesy, tectonics, seismology and magnetism to help understand the structure and kinematics of the Zagros–Makran transition. Surface observations (tectonics, magnetism and geodesy) indicate a transpressive discontinuity consisting of several faults striking obliquely to the convergent plate motion, whereas deeper observations (seismology) support a smooth transition across the fault system. No lithospheric transform fault has been created, although the transition already behaves like a major boundary in terms of tectonic style, seismic structure, lithology and magnetism. The Zendan–Minab–Palami fault system consists of several faults that accommodate a transpressive tectonic regime. It is the surface expression of a southward propagation of the north–south-trending right-lateral strike-slip fault system of Jiroft–Sabzevaran. Within each system the numerous faults will coalesce into a single, lithospheric, wrench fault.