Iran’s Strategic Stance on the Zangezur Corridor Dispute

TEHRAN (Iran News) After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Zangezur came entirely under Armenian control and became part of Armenia’s Syunik Province. However, from a geopolitical standpoint, the Zangezur Corridor is a vital route for connecting Turkey to Azerbaijan through the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan. Azerbaijan has demanded free access to Nakhchivan via this corridor, while Armenia, concerned about its national sovereignty and border security with Iran, has resisted this demand.

Turkey and Azerbaijan strongly support the establishment of a transit corridor, while Armenia and its allies—particularly Russia and Iran—are wary of the geopolitical consequences. This border conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Zangezur has become one of the most complex and historically rooted disputes in the South Caucasus region. The area’s strategic importance has increased, especially after the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War in 2020 and subsequent developments.

Following the 2020 ceasefire, Azerbaijan pushed for the opening of the Zangezur Corridor for logistical and trade purposes. Many in Armenia view granting transit rights to Azerbaijan as a threat to their sovereignty, fearing it could effectively sever their geographic connection with Iran. While Russia is officially acting as a mediator, its policies remain ambiguous—maintaining alliances with Armenia while also fostering close ties with Azerbaijan.

Iran, like Armenia, opposes any redrawing of borders. Tehran fears that the Zangezur Corridor could undermine its influence in the region and strengthen the Ankara-Baku axis. Some analysts suggest a possible Russian- or EU-mediated agreement could allow for controlled transit through Zangezur, balancing the interests of all parties. However, Iran has made it clear it will not accept any scenario that eliminates its strategic neighbor, Armenia—even if it means potential conflict with Turkey and Azerbaijan.

It is evident that if Azerbaijan escalates its pressure—militarily or economically—the risk of renewed military conflict remains high. Any decision regarding Zangezur could shift the balance of power in the Caucasus and significantly impact the relationships among Turkey, Russia, Iran, and the West.

From Iran’s perspective, Zangezur is not merely a border issue. It represents a geopolitical arena where regional and global powers compete. A diplomatic resolution to this strategic dispute is only possible if an agreement ensures Armenia’s security, Azerbaijan’s transit interests, and Iran’s continued geographic and strategic connection to Armenia.