Iran’s Shifting Position on Nagorno-Karabakh

Nagorno-Karabakh is a territorial and ethnic conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan since 1988. The territory is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, occupied by Armenia. Regardless of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, Nagorno-Karabakh is controlled by a self-declared Republic. The conflict transformed into full-scale war between Armenia and Azerbaijan in 1990, with a ceasefire signed in 1994 between the two states. This dispute also transformed the regional dynamics where influential states maneuvered according to their territorial and ideological orientation. Azerbaijan is supported by Turkey and the US, whereas Iran and Russia support Armenia. According to the article, Iran’s support to Armenia is not on religious lines but regional atmosphere. Due to tight sanctions imposed by the US, Iran needs partners to sustain and enhance its fragile exports. The article also mentions the Shiite population of Azerbaijan and their support by ethnic Azeris living in Iran. Moreover, Tehran is one of the worst COVID-19 affected states in addition to already increased hostility with the US after the murder of General Qassem Soleimani. Therefore, the Iranian support to Armenia will increase both economically and militarily to maintain the balance of power in the Caspian Sea region.