Armenians Fear That Azerbaijan Will Seize This Route by Force, Says Iranian Ambassador to Armenia

The Russian Federation and Iran have differing interests in the South Caucasus, according to Mehdi Sobhanian, Iran's ambassador to Armenia, in an interview with the New York Times. He elaborated, "We have some disagreements and some common interests. This does not mean we are allies." The American publication noted that in the conflict-ridden Caucasus, Russia and Iran have contrasting views on trade routes and the division of influence.

This situation presents an unusual dilemma for Western countries. It is noted that the tension surrounding the future of the region currently revolves around Syunik. The New York Times writes, "At this moment, this route is crucial for transporting Iranian goods from the Persian Gulf to Russia and Europe. Here, Russia and Azerbaijan want to open a route from east to west towards Turkey, which will be beyond Armenia's control. Armenians fear that Azerbaijan will seize this route by force."

In a unique interview with the American publication, the Iranian ambassador stated, "We cannot accept changes to international borders." Mehdi Sobhanian simultaneously avoided clarifying what Tehran would do if Azerbaijan were to launch an attack, asserting, "That will not happen."