IRGC Issues Statement on the 'Zangezur Corridor'

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has made statements regarding the Zangezur Corridor, which have been published on social networks.

First Statement
“Iran faces a complex challenge: to avoid the trap associated with the creation of the Zangezur Corridor and to counter the attempts of its neighbors to change historical borders. As Azerbaijan and Turkey actively push the corridor project south of Armenia, Iran must firmly position itself to protect its national interests and geopolitical standing.

The new Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Aragchi is faced with one of the toughest missions of his career. He must not only preserve the territorial integrity of the country but also ensure that the borders with Armenia remain open, which is vital for Iran. At the same time, Aragchi needs to act in a way that does not disrupt Iran's friendly relations with Turkey, Russia, and Baku.

The leader of the Islamic Revolution has clearly expressed his position against the project known for its anti-Iranian nature, the ‘Turani Corridor.’ The Iranian leadership has conveyed that any attempt to alter the historical borders of the region will be regarded as a threat to its national security. In light of recent statements from Russian authorities and the escalation of efforts by Baku and Ankara, Iran’s Foreign Ministry must act decisively and strategically to prevent the implementation of this project.

Thus, the future of the Zangezur Corridor will be determined by Iran’s diplomatic efforts and its capability to protect its interests on the international stage. At this challenging moment, Iran must demonstrate steadfastness and foresight to prevent changes that could weaken its positions in the region.”

Second Statement
“Changes to internationally recognized borders in the Caucasus region and geopolitical shifts that contradict the interests of other countries will create obstacles to sustainable peace in this region. Iran has consistently maintained its position against the creation of the Zangezur Corridor. The legal and historical borders of Iran are inviolable, and no one has the right to violate them. The creation of this corridor can only be realized with Iran’s agreement and under the condition that the sanctity of Iran's legal borders is fully respected.”

Third Statement
“In recent weeks, disputes have again flared up around the establishment of the Zangezur Corridor, which Turkey and Azerbaijan wish to construct through southern Armenia to connect Nakhchivan with mainland Azerbaijan. This project particularly concerns Iran, as it threatens the only land route leading from Armenia to Europe.

Ayatollah Khamenei expressed his position on this matter clearly in 2021, stating that Iran would not allow changes to borders that threaten its geopolitical interests and the stability of the Caucasus region. His words served as a warning to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and their allies that any imbalance in the region could lead to serious consequences.

Since then, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as one of Iran’s key forces, has amplified its presence along the northwestern borders through exercises and demonstrations of readiness to protect national interests. This project represents not only a political issue for Iran but also a threat to its national security and territorial integrity. Moreover, Iran is concerned about recent statements by certain Russian officials supporting the idea of a Zangezur Corridor. Despite its strategic partnership with Russia, Tehran has repeatedly underscored that preserving Iran’s territorial integrity and borders remains a priority.

Russia must clearly understand that its recent backing of the Zangezur Corridor contradicts its statements related to 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 relations should not be based on unilateral interests.

In conclusion, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Ayatollah Khamenei are resolute in their position, and any interference in the region, be it from Turkey, Azerbaijan, or Russia, will face decisive resistance from Iran on diplomatic and military levels.”

Fourth Statement
“The Islamic Republic of Iran emphasizes and clearly states that borders are both a factor of geopolitical stability and a guarantor of national interests in ensuring peace in the region. Tehran views these principles not merely as diplomatic nuances but as the central axis of relations with ‘all’ countries. Acknowledging the motives of the players in the ‘game’ surrounding Zangezur, Iran will not deviate from its principles.”