Iran Rejects Azerbaijan’s Corridor Demand through Armenia, Warning Against Foreign Interference

Iran has publicly backed Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” project, calling for the reopening of regional transport routes in a way that respects the sovereignty and borders of all countries in the South Caucasus. Iranian officials emphasized that any transport initiatives must not violate international laws or the territorial integrity of Armenia or any neighboring state.

In recent remarks to Armenpress, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei reaffirmed Tehran’s strong ties with Armenia and its Armenian community within Iran. He stressed that peace and stability in the South Caucasus are important for the security of Iran itself. Iran sees the reopening of transport and economic links as key for the development and welfare of Armenians, Azerbaijanis, and Iranians alike.

Baghaei made clear that Iran supports Armenia’s plan because it respects international borders and sovereignty, unlike Azerbaijan’s insistence on creating an extraterritorial corridor connecting with its exclave, Nakhijevan. Armenia has firmly rejected such demands, citing international law that forbids any violation of territorial integrity.

Iran’s position calls for transport routes to be developed carefully, without changing recognized borders or undermining any nation’s sovereignty. The country also warned against interference from outside powers, saying non-regional actors should not interfere in South Caucasus affairs, as this would only make conflicts worse.

On the topic of peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Baghaei expressed cautious optimism. Although Azerbaijan has reportedly set new preconditions after agreeing in principle to a peace treaty, Iran believes that if both sides truly want peace, it can be achieved. Iran has actively encouraged both Yerevan and Baku to finalize and sign the peace agreement as soon as possible to ensure lasting stability.

Regarding Armenia’s growing relations with Western countries, Iran explained that it does not see Armenia’s foreign policy diversification as a threat. Iran values its historic and trusting friendship with Armenia. However, it stressed that Armenia’s new partnerships must not be used against Iran’s interests or violate international law, particularly the rule that forbids any state from using its territory to harm a neighbor.

When asked about concerns that Israel may have used Azerbaijani airspace to attack Iran, Baghaei said Iran asked Azerbaijan to investigate reports but did not accuse Baku of direct involvement. He reminded that Israel has a history of using other countries’ territories to carry out attacks. Iran expects all neighbors to ensure their lands are not used by third parties against one another.

Iran’s statements clearly support Armenia’s rightful position on regional transport and peace. They reject Azerbaijan’s extraterritorial corridor demands and warn against outside interference in the South Caucasus. Iran’s backing strengthens Armenia’s efforts to restore connectivity based on respect for borders and sovereignty, while encouraging a fair and lasting peace in the region.

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