Discussions regarding the “Zangezur corridor” are heating up. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has made statements that were published on social networks.
Statement 1
“Iran is faced with a difficult task to avoid the trap regarding the creation of the Zangezur corridor and to resist the attempts of its neighbors to change historical borders. As Azerbaijan and Turkey have been actively promoting the corridor project in the south of Armenia, Iran must take a strong stance to protect its national interests and geostrategic position.
Sayyid Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s new foreign minister, faces one of the most difficult missions of his career. He will have to not only maintain the territorial integrity of the country, but also ensure that the borders with Armenia remain open, which is of vital importance for Iran. At the same time, Araghchishould act in such a way as not to damage Iran’s friendly relations with Turkey, Russia and Baku.
Thus, the future of the Zangezur corridor will be determined by Iran’s diplomatic efforts and its ability to defend its interests in the international arena. At this difficult moment, Iran must show firmness and foresight to prevent changes capable of weakening its position in the region.”
Statement 2
“The changes of internationally recognized borders and geopolitical changes in the Caucasus region, which contradict the interests of other countries, will create obstacles for sustainable peace in this region. Iran has consistently maintained its stance against the creation of the Zangezur corridor. The legal and historical borders of Iran are impregnable, and no one has the right to violate them. The creation of this corridor can be implemented only with Iran’s consent and under the condition that the inviolability of Iran’s legal borders is fully respected.”
Statement 3
“In recent weeks, disputes have flared up again over the creation of the Zangezur corridor, which Turkey and Azerbaijan want to build in the south of Armenia in order to connect Nakhijevan with the main territory of Azerbaijan. The project is of particular concern to Iran, as it threatens the only land route to Europe through the territory of Armenia.
Ayatollah Khamenei clearly expressed his stance on this issue in 2021, declaring that Iran will not allow border changes that threaten its geopolitical interests and the stability of the Caucasus. His words sounded as a warning to Turkey, Azerbaijan and their allies that any imbalance in the region could lead to serious consequences.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, one of Iran’s key forces, has since stepped up its presence on the northwestern border, conducting military drills and demonstrating its willingness to defend the country’s national interests. For Iran, this project is not only a political issue, but a threat to its national security and territorial integrity. In addition, Iran is concerned about the recent statements of some Russian officials supporting the idea of creating the Zangezur corridor. Despite its strategic partnership with Russia, Tehran has repeatedly emphasized that maintaining Iran’s territorial integrity and borders remains a priority.
Russia should clearly understand that its recent support for the creation of the Zangezur Corridor contradicts the statements of friendship and strategic partnership with Iran. As the war with Ukraine continues to drain significant resources from Moscow, Iran has reminded Russia that their bilateral relationship should not be based on unilateral interests. “In conclusion, the IRGC and Ayatollah Khamenei are steadfast in their stance, and any intervention in the region, whether from Turkey, Azerbaijan or Russia, will be met with determined Iranian resistance at the diplomatic and military levels.”
Statement 4
“The Islamic Republic of Iran emphasizes and clearly declares that borders are a factor of geopolitical stability and peace in the region, and the guarantor of national interests. Tehran considers these principles not only diplomatic subtleties, but the central axis of relations with “all” countries. While realizing the motives of the participants in the “game” around Zangezur, Iran will not deviate from its principles.”
