Cracks in Russia-Iran Relations Over The “Zangezur Corridor”

By  KRIKOR KHODANIAN

As a result of the war in Ukraine, Russia’s ties with the West have fractured, leading Moscow to strengthen relations with China, North Korea, Iran, and, to the detriment of Armenia, Azerbaijan.

Recently, cracks have emerged in Russia’s close relationship with the Islamic Republic of Iran, particularly over Moscow’s stance on Azerbaijan’s “Zangezur Corridor” proposal. Moscow’s support for Azerbaijan’s view on this issue has caused friction with Tehran.

Earlier this week, the United States informed its allies that Iran had transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukraine. Although Tehran denied these reports, it wasn’t the first time Iranian arms shipments to Russia became public knowledge.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, during a visit to Baku, accused Armenia of “sabotaging” the implementation of Article 9 of the tripartite declaration signed at the end of the 44-day war, referring to the opening of transport routes. According to Moscow, this article envisions the deployment of Russian troops to secure the road connecting Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan. This plan has raised alarm in Iran, which has long maintained its opposition to any changes along its border with Armenia. The Armenia-Iran border is crucial for Tehran, as it provides access for Iranian trucks to reach the Black Sea and Europe via Georgia.

In recent years, Azerbaijan has demanded a corridor through Armenia’s Syunik region, allowing unhindered travel to its Nakhchivan enclave. When Baku recently stated that the corridor was no longer a precondition for a peace treaty with Armenia, it seemed the issue was closed. However, Moscow’s recent stance, as articulated by Lavrov, surprised Iran and prompted a swift response.

The Russian ambassador was summoned to the Iranian Foreign Ministry to protest the Kremlin’s position. Moreover, the Tehran Times, considered close to Iran’s security establishment, declared that Baku and Ankara’s demands for a “corridor” represent a red line for Tehran. Iranian officials have indicated they are prepared to oppose militarily any attempt to alter the borders.

Given Iran’s strong opposition, Russia may need to reconsider its stance to avoid further straining relations with Tehran. Maintaining a positive relationship with Iran is essential for Moscow, especially as the war in Ukraine drags on with no clear end in sight, and Russia continues to rely on Iranian weaponry to replenish its stockpiles.

“MASSIS’