WANA (Sep 07) – In recent days, tensions surrounding the Zangezur Corridor have escalated due to Russia’s emphasis on Azerbaijan’s right to activate this passage.

 

The Zangezur Corridor, which the Islamic Republic of Iran considers a red line, has been a point of contention, with Iran clearly stating that it will not permit its activation.

 

Iranian officials have expressed strong and clear opposition to any geopolitical changes in the Caucasus region. Ali Nikzad, Vice Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, responded to the issue on his personal X (formerly Twitter) account, stating, “The strategic policies of the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding borders, neighbors, and corridors are fixed and based on national interests. As I emphasized at the last parliamentary summit in Baku, we do not accept changes in borders. My advice to Russia and Azerbaijan is to respect borders.”

 

Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Deputy Foreign Minister of Iran, also highlighted in recent days, “Peace, security, and regional stability are not merely a priority but a pillar of our national security. Any threat to the territorial integrity of our neighbors, or any redrawing of borders, whether in the north, south, east, or west, is entirely unacceptable and a red line for Iran.”

 

Similarly, Rouhollah Motefakker-Azad, a representative from Tabriz in the Iranian Parliament, echoed these sentiments on his X account, stating, “The definitive policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran is the non-alteration of international borders, a position clearly articulated by the Supreme Leader.

 

Iran will not tolerate any policies that lead to the displacement or blockade of international borders in its vicinity. This stance has been communicated to all parties involved.

 

If the government of Azerbaijan is concerned about its connection to the autonomous region of Nakhchivan, it should focus on completing the Aras Corridor under the existing agreements.”

 

Given Iran’s firm position, the Zangezur Corridor issue appears to be shaping into a serious regional challenge with potential geopolitical ramifications. Iran continues to stress that any changes in borders or regional transit routes must adhere to existing agreements and respect the interests of all involved parties.

 

The Zangezur Corridor, located near Iran’s northern border, holds significant strategic, geopolitical, and economic importance for the country. Through Armenia, Iran maintains access to markets in the Caucasus, Eurasia, and even Europe.

 

However, if Azerbaijan gains control and activates this corridor, it could limit Iran’s access to these markets, reducing its strategic role in the regional transit of goods.

 

Moreover, such a development could bolster the influence of Turkey and Azerbaijan in the region, potentially shifting the balance of power in ways unfavorable to Iran and affecting Tehran’s historical ties with Armenia.