Redrawing of borders ...
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Tehran’s unequivocal position on this matter effectively sidelined discussions about the Zangezur Corridor for an extended period. However, Russia’s stance on this issue has recently become a subject of controversy. Moscow had initially opposed the establishment of such a corridor, particularly due to support from the US and Turkey, and the warming of relations between Armenia and the West raised concerns for both Iran and Russia that the corridor could bring NATO to their doorstep.
During the recent visit of the Russian president to the Republic of Azerbaijan, there were reportedly discussions about this corridor, according to media accounts. Subsequently, Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, brought the issue into the public eye by stating that Moscow is aware of the Iranian concerns regarding the Zangezur Corridor, and they need to clarify this issue with Tehran, but Moscow’s position on this matter is absolutely clear.
Moscow’s controversial stance has triggered a wave of critical reactions in Iran, especially as the two countries are on the brink of finalizing a long-term cooperation agreement. The signing of a joint statement by the [Persian] Gulf Cooperation Council countries, alongside Russia, in support of the UAE’s claims over three Iranian islands, had already generated significant criticism of Russia. Now, Moscow’s new position on the Zangezur Corridor, coinciding with the inauguration of Iran’s new government, has fueled pessimistic analyses and raised questions about Russia’s intentions towards Iran.
Moscow’s stance on the aforementioned corridor is of such significance to Iran that, in response, the Russian ambassador in Tehran was summoned to the Foreign Ministry. Iran’s opposition to any changes in internationally recognized borders and geopolitical shifts in the region was reiterated, emphasizing the need to respect the legitimate interests and concerns of all regional countries.
As part of the ongoing reactions, Araghchi published a message on the social media platform X, stating, “Regional peace, security and stability is not merely a preference, but a pillar of our national security. Any threat from North, South, East, or West to territorial integrity of our neighbors or redrawing of boundaries is totally unacceptable and a red line for Iran.”
Contrary to the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson’s assertion about clarifying the issue for Iran, it seems that it is the Russians who need to provide clarity. From the Iranian perspective, it is the contradictory and unfriendly Russian stances that require rectification, as they are perceived as unclear and ambiguous.