Iran has declared its intention to block a proposed corridor in the Caucasus region established under a peace agreement brokered by the United States between Azerbaijan and Armenia. While other regional powers have hailed the agreement as a pathway to lasting peace, Iran views it with considerable concern.
Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, stated on Saturday that Tehran would halt the initiative, ‘with or without Russia.’ This initiative involves Armenia, with which Iran shares a strategic alliance. The ceasefire, facilitated by the Trump administration, has the potential to create distance.
The United States and Turkey have long sought to establish a trade corridor in the Caucasus, potentially bypassing Iran. Referring to the transportation corridor included in the peace agreement, Velayati remarked, “This route will not become a gateway for Trump’s mercenaries; it will become their graveyard.” He described the plan as a ‘political betrayal’ aimed at undermining Armenia’s territorial integrity.
The agreement signed at the White House on Friday includes specific U.S. development rights for a route through Armenia, connecting Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan. Nakhchivan is an Azerbaijani exclave bordering Turkey, a Baku ally. This autonomous republic is situated on the Trans-Caucasian plateau and is surrounded by Armenia, Iran, and Turkey.
Iran opposes the proposed Zangezur corridor in the Trans-Caucasus due to the threats it poses to Iran’s geopolitical, strategic, and economic interests. Its construction could sever direct contact with Armenia, a crucial ally, thereby weakening Iran’s regional influence. Currently, Iran’s territory serves as a vital route for trade and transit between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan. The corridor would bypass this route, diminishing Iran’s strategic and economic impact in the South Caucasus.
Iran also fears the corridor could lead to an increased military presence of the U.S. and NATO on its northern borders, which it perceives as a threat to its national security. Ali Akbar Velayati, the Supreme Leader’s advisor, has labeled it a ‘geopolitical conspiracy’ and has called for its obstruction by any means.
