Iran has stated it will work to block the proposed corridor in the Caucasus region, which is part of a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia facilitated by the United States. While the agreement is seen by some as a means of establishing lasting peace, it raises significant concerns for Iran.
According to Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Tehran will seek to halt the initiative ‘with or without Russia.’ The initiative involves Armenia, with whom Iran has a strategic alliance. The ceasefire, which was arranged by the Trump administration, may introduce a strain on relations.
The United States and Turkey have sought to establish a trade corridor in the Caucasus for some time, potentially circumventing Iran. Velayati, speaking of the transport corridor, stated that “this route will not become a gateway for Trump’s mercenaries; it will become their graveyard.” He described the plan as a ‘political betrayal’ that aims to weaken Armenia’s territorial integrity.
The agreement, reached at the White House on Friday, includes specific U.S. development rights for a route through Armenia to connect Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan, an Azerbaijani exclave bordering Turkey. Nakhchivan is situated on the Trans-Caucasian plateau and is surrounded by Armenia, Iran, and Turkey.
Iran is opposed to the proposed Zangezur corridor in the Trans-Caucasus, as it poses a threat to Iran’s geopolitical, strategic, and economic interests. Its construction could sever its direct contact with Armenia, a key ally. It would also undermine Iran’s regional reach. Iran’s territory has recently become a vital route for trade and movement between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan. The corridor would bypass this route, which would diminish Iran’s strategic and economic influence 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 views as a threat to its national security. Ali Akbar Velayati, an advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, has termed it a ‘geopolitical conspiracy’ and insists on its obstruction under any circumstances.