Aliyev Threatens Not Only Armenia and Artsakh, But Also Makes Territorial Claims on Iran: Ruben Vardanyan

Ruben Vardanyan, the Minister of State of Artsakh, stated during an interview with Iranian political analyst Ehsan Mohagheghian that he is confident Iran will actively play its role in establishing real peace in the region. He emphasized Iran's role in ensuring regional security.

Speaking about the situation in the South Caucasus, Vardanyan noted that while Russia is an ally of Armenia, its close cooperation with Turkey and Azerbaijan, in the context of the two countries' anti-Armenian policies, significantly alters the balance of power in the region. According to him, Artsakh becomes an important factor in the region and continues to influence events even as an unrecognized state. Therefore, Stepanakert is ready to discuss joint measures for peaceful coexistence, primarily with the countries of the region.

During the conversation, Vardanyan highlighted that the actions of the Republic of Azerbaijan are aimed at the Russian peacekeeping forces and are connected with Azerbaijan's active anti-Russian propaganda. "I believe that Baku intends to officially prevent the continuation of the Russian peacekeeping mission in the region from 2025. It is crucial for us to establish security guarantees for the international community so that Baku does not continue its ethnic cleansing policy. The existing contradictions between the West and Russia, as well as between the West and Iran, should not pose an obstacle to ensuring the security of Artsakh. Therefore, I hope that the countries interested in real peace in the region, including our friendly country, Iran, will do everything possible to ensure these issues are safeguarded in Artsakh and throughout the region for a long time," Vardanyan stated.

He noted that Ilham Aliyev's impunity poses a threat to the entire region. He threatens not only Armenia and Artsakh but also makes territorial claims on Iran. The Minister added that the international community also has a political and moral responsibility to prevent the escalation of the crisis.

According to Vardanyan, Iran is facing security issues following Azerbaijan's occupation of Armenian lands. Thus, Iran must have a political engagement and a stabilizing role to prevent the escalation of security issues that could have catastrophic consequences for the entire region. "I also want to recall the words of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during the war, who stated that the security of Armenians living in Karabakh must be preserved. Therefore, I am confident that Iran will actively play its role in establishing real peace in the region, taking into account the legitimate interests of all parties involved," Vardanyan added.