In an interview with ISNA News Agency on Saturday, Ebrahim
Azizi emphasized that Iran has conveyed its position to regional countries
through various diplomatic channels, stressing that the corridor's status is
non-negotiable for Tehran.
In response to recent statements from Russian officials
advocating for the opening of the Zangezur Corridor and their cooperation with
Azerbaijan and Turkey in this matter, Azizi expressed Iran’s strong opposition.
"The geopolitical developments surrounding the Zangezur
Corridor are not in the best interest of the region, and Iran is vehemently
opposed to such moves," Azizi stated.
While underscoring Iran's commitment to regional stability,
he made it clear that any threat to Iran’s territorial integrity would be met
with resolute action.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran has always pursued peace
and avoided escalating tensions in the region. However, if our territorial
sovereignty is compromised, we will stand firm and will not allow any country to
infringe upon us."
The strategic importance of the South Caucasus region was
also highlighted by Azizi, who described it as a key axis in Eurasian
geopolitics.
"Historically,
this region has been part of Iran's civilizational sphere and has witnessed numerous
geopolitical shifts over the centuries. Its role in energy transfer, peace,
stability, and regional balance is undeniable, and we are closely monitoring
all developments," he said.
Azizi also referred to the Leader of Islamic Revolution's
position on the issue, recalling a meeting between Ayatollah Seyyed Ali
Khamenei, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip
Erdogan, during which Iran’s firm stance against any geopolitical changes in
the Caucasus was reiterated.
"We have repeatedly communicated to regional nations
that the Zangezur Corridor is a red line for Iran, and any alterations will
provoke a strong and serious response."
Concluding his remarks, Azizi underscored the active role of
Iran's parliament in monitoring the situation. "The National Security and
Foreign Policy Committee of the Iranian parliament is closely following the
geopolitical developments related to the Zangezur Corridor. We expect the
president and the foreign minister to address these critical issues with
urgency and sensitivity, using diplomatic channels to resolve the matter in a
way that protects Iran's national interests."
Additionally, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament issued a
tweet advising Russia and Azerbaijan to respect international borders.
"Iran's strategic policies regarding borders,
neighboring countries, and corridors are stable and rooted in our national
interests. As I emphasized during the recent Parliamentary Assembly in Baku, we
do not accept any changes to borders. My advice to Russia and Azerbaijan is to
respect these boundaries,” Ali Nikzad, the Deputy Speaker, posted on the social
media platform X.
