I R A N

[Yervant1]

IRNA, Iran

Aug 23 2024

 

 

Armenia praises Iran's stances in support of territorial integrity

 

Tehran, IRNA — The Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan says his county praises the stances of the Islamic Republic on the Armenian territorial integrity.

In a phone conversation on Friday with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, Mirzoyan thanked Iran on its stances about regional issues, including the territorial integrity of Armenia.

Offering congratulations to Araghchi on his appointment as the new foreign minister of Iran, the Armenian top diplomat expressed his country's willingness to further boost ties with the Islamic Republic.

Araghchi, during the telephone talk, voiced Tehran's readiness to expand relations with Yerevan.

Iran will continue to support lasting stability in the region, Iran's high-ranking official noted.

The foreign policy of the Islamic Republic toward the region will not be changed, he further noted.

7129**9417

https://en.irna.ir/news/85576800/Armenia-praises-Iran-s-stances-in-support-of-territorial-integrity

[Yervant1]

Iran International

Set 3 2024

 

Iran rebukes Russia over its policy shift on Zangezur corridor

19 hours ago

Iran on Monday criticized Russia for supporting Azerbaijan's demand to get unimpeded access to its Nakhchivan enclave by opening the Zangezur transport corridor through Armenia, which would effectively cut off Iran's direct access to Armenia.

Baku has been demanding the corridor in southern Armenia to connect Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan enclave separated by Armenian territory. Moscow and Baku want Russia to monitor and control the corridor, but Yerevan and Tehran are opposed to such a scheme and argue that even if a transport route were to be established, Armenia should have control over it.

In a Monday "meeting" with Russia's ambassador to Tehran, the director-general of the Iranian Foreign Ministry's Eurasia Department expressed Iran's opposition to "any geopolitical changes in the Caucasus".

The Iranian official told Russia's envoy that "respecting national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and mutual interests of countries is the guarantor of lasting peace and a foundation for regional cooperation in the Caucasus," according to the Foreign Ministry's readout of the talks.

"In this meeting, opposition to changes in recognized international borders and geopolitical alterations in the region, as well as the necessity to consider the legitimate interests and concerns of all regional countries, was emphasized," the statement said.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov recently angered Iran by expressing his support for the establishment of the controversial Zangezur corridor during Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to Baku.

Iran has always opposed the establishment of the transport corridor which will eliminate Iran's direct access to Armenia, if the corridor is not controlled by Yerevan.

In a meeting with Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan on July 30, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reiterated Iran's opposition to Zangezur corridor which he said the Islamic Republic considers it “detrimental” to Armenia’s interests.

Last month, Iran congratulated the “government and people of Ukraine” on their Independence Day, in a move that was interpreted by some as a response to Russia’s recent shift of policy about the corridor.

In December 2023, Moscow also sparked outrage in Iran by repeating its support for negotiations between Iran and the UAE over the three disputed Islands of Abu Musa, the Greater Tunb, and the Lesser Tunb in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran summoned the Russian envoy after Moscow signed a joint statement with Arab nations calling for negotiations.

Russia’s long delay in signing a 20-year comprehensive cooperation agreement with Iran despite the aid Iran has offered to Russia in its war against Ukraine has also irritated the Islamic Republic.

https://www.iranintl.com/en/202409022022

[Yervant1]

---

Modern Tokyo Times, Japan

Sept 5 2024

 

 

Iran Rebukes Russia over Intrigues against Armenia (Azerbaijan and Zangezur corridor)

September 5, 2024 

 

Lee Jay

Iran Rebukes Russia over Intrigues against Armenia (Azerbaijan and Zangezur corridor)

Noriko Watanabe and Lee Jay Walker

President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation needs to desist from forcing the weak hand of Armenia concerning the Zangezur corridor. Iran notified the Russian Federation that geopolitical changes in the Caucasus are not desired. Therefore, other nations – including America, France, and Greece – must step up in their support of this ancient Christian land against the threat of Pan-Turkism (Azerbaijan and Turkey) and the intrigues of the Russian Federation.

Iran is displeased that the Russian Federation and Turkey (NATO power) are supporting Azerbaijan in its demand to control the Zangezur transport corridor. This stretch of Armenian land splits the Nakhchivan Azerbaijan enclave (once Armenian Christian land until cleansed) from the rest of Azerbaijan.

If Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation, and Turkey usurped the Zangezur transport corridor from the control of Armenia, this would entail that Iran is conclusively cut off from its natural border with Armenia.

The director-general of the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Eurasia Department expressed his displeasure to the ambassador of the Russian Federation – who is based in Tehran.

The Iranian official said “any geopolitical changes in the Caucasus” aren’t welcome by Iran.

The director-general continued, “…respecting national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and mutual interests of countries is the guarantor of lasting peace and a foundation for regional cooperation in the Caucasus.”

Iran International reports, “Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov recently angered Iran by expressing his support for the establishment of the controversial Zangezur corridor during Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to Baku.”

The Supreme Leader of Iran (Ali Khamenei) told Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia that Iran seeks cordial ties with Armenia.

Khamenei said, “We are deeply committed to enhancing our relations with Armenia, and the collaboration between our two nations, founded on mutual interests and independent of policies of others, will continue with unwavering strength.”

Both nations allegedly signed a military deal for Iran to send military hardware to Armenia (roughly $500 million). Iran is known for drones – and this weakness of Armenia (and others) – was exploited by Azerbaijan (supplied by sophisticated military hardware from Israel and Turkey) when crushing the Christian Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Iran International reports, “After an apparent disappointment with its long-time ally, Russia, Armenia has been forging closer ties with the United States and France in recent months, including joint military drills with US forces in July.”

Maria Zakharova (the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson) said, “We have seen statements by Iranian officials expressing concern about the idea of opening the so-called ‘Zangezur corridor’ and explaining the reasons for this attitude.”

The Jamestown Foundation reports (Vali Kaleji), “Indeed, a significant number of Iranian elites and experts believe that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s emphasis on “uniting the geography of Turkic world” via the Zangezur Corridor and the expansion of Turkey’s presence in the South Caucasus will strengthen Pan-Turkism in the region, which could incite ethnic and separatist sentiments (Mediamax.am, November 12, 2021). In addition, considering the close relations between Azerbaijan and Israel, Tehran is worried that, if Baku does capture the southern part of Syunik Province, this will bolster Israel’s intelligence, espionage and security presence vis-à-vis Iran.”

Armenia still needs to seek cordial relations with the Russian Federation because of the geopolitical clout of this nation. However, given the current geopolitical weakness of Armenia – concerning the intrigues of Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation, and Turkey – it is essential that Armenia develops potent relations with America, France, Iran, Greece, and the European Union.

The Russian Federation might unleash future problems for itself if changes occur in the Caucasus region. This notably concerns pan-Turkism.

https://moderntokyotimes.com/iran-rebukes-russia-over-intrigues-against-armenia-azerbaijan-and-zangezur-corridor/

[Yervant1]

IRAN FRONT PAGE

Sept 6 2024

 

 

Iranian ambassador to Armenia urges Russia against pushing for Zangezur “corridor” 

 

Iran’s Ambassador to Armenia, Mahdi Sobhani, says the dreams about the Zangezur corridor will not come true. 

Zangezur is a concept corridor extending from the Azerbaijani capital, Baku to Eastern Türkiye, passing through Armenian soil near the country’s border with Iran.

As a result, the concept corridor will cut off Iran’s access to the Armenian territory.

The Iranian ambassador to Armenia noted that the territorial integrity of neighboring countries, including Armenia, is a red line for the Islamic Republic.

He added Iran insists that Armenia must have control over its territory.

Earlier, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency quoted Iran’s ambassador to Russia as warning against any change to internationally recognized borders in the Caucuses.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also said in a post on X that any threats against the territorial integrity of Iran’s neighbors or redrawing new borders either in south, north, east or west is completely unacceptable and is a red-line for Iran.

“Peace, security and stability in the region is not only a priority, but a pillar to our national security”, the top Iranian diplomat said.

https://ifpnews.com/iranian-ambassador-to-armenia-urges-russia-against-pushing-for-zangezur-corridor/

[Yervant1]

Armenpress.am

 

“All illusions about Zangezur corridor will never become reality,” says Iranian Ambassador to Armenia

Read the article in: العربيةفارسیՀայերեն简体中文

 

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. Iranian Ambassador to Armenia Mehdi Sobhani has reiterated Tehran’s stance regarding the unblocking of connections in South Caucasus: Iran does not oppose the unblocking but the process must happen under the national jurisdiction of the countries involved. 

“Our stance regarding the unblocking issue is very clear and obvious. We do not oppose the unblocking, but we are sure that all actions within the framework of the unblocking must take place under national and state sovereignty. All dreams and illusions regarding the Zangezur corridor will never become reality,” Sobhani said, reiterating Tehran’s opposition to extraterritoriality in Armenian territory. 

“We are sure that all control must be fulfilled by the Armenian government, under its sovereignty,” the ambassador stressed. 

 

 

 

Published by Armenpress, original at https://armenpress.am/en/article/1199220?fbclid=IwY2xjawFImOBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHYVK9oyw2GrvivHzE1hPkWduHkCnynEGUUuJG8JsbeZbhcrL4lbGV_oBPQ_aem_T8RrSl5i0ZQjOd0mqCfHkA

[Yervant1]

MEHR News Agency, Iran

Sept 7 2024

 

Iran to collaborate with Armenia on $3 billion projects

TEHRAN, Sep. 07 (MNA) – Iran's Ambassador to Armenia Mehdi Sobhani announced that Tehran has planned collaboration with Armenia amounting to approximately $3 billion.

Iran has planned collaboration with Armenia amounting to approximately $3 billion, said Iran's Ambassador to Armenia Mehdi Sobhani while speaking about the existing potential for economic cooperation between the two countries and future planned projects.

"We have great potential for cooperation between our countries. The fields in which we already collaborate can serve as a strong foundation for the further development of commercial, political, and economic relations between Armenia and Iran," the Ambassador said, Armenpress reported.

He added that Iran has considerable experience in road construction, particularly in bridge construction, and in the construction sector in general.

"We are determined to utilize all available potential," said Sobhani, noting that Iran supports Armenia and we will continue to do so.

Iran's Ambassador expressed his belief that a very bright future awaits the relations between Yerevan and Tehran.

MP/PR

https://en.mehrnews.com/news/220771/Iran-to-collaborate-with-Armenia-on-3-billion-projects

[Yervant1]

Armenpress.am

 

"Zangezur Corridor" is a fake corridor - Ebrahim Azizi

Read the article in: العربيةՀայերենРусский

 

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 7, ARMENPRESS. The Chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission Ebrahim Azizi has noted that the Zangzur corridor is a fake corridor, and apparently, there are some projects to reduce Iran's military and political power in the region under the pretext of this corridor, Iranian Mehr News Agency reported.

Commenting on Russia's latest position regarding the Zangezur Corridor during the meeting of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Ebrahim Azizi said: "What is clear is that the issues related to the geopolitical developments in the Zangzur Corridor are not in the interest of the countries of the region, and Iran is also strongly against this issue."

Azizi warned that those pursuing such illusions would face heavy and costly consequences.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran, rationally and intelligently, never seeks to create tension in the region," Azizi said, adding that on the other hand, the country would defend itself if its territorial integrity is threatened.

He emphasized that Iran closely monitors the developments in the South Caucasus region and reiterated that the corridor is considered a red line for Iran.

"Any change and action in it will be met with a serious and firm reaction from Iran," Mehr quoted him as saying.

 

 

 

Published by Armenpress, original at https://armenpress.am/en/article/1199273?fbclid=IwY2xjawFJxPNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHX4A5vutqFVGnPJkE4bRufSlBX5a9FBijOVIytmbiHNLjLbKkrnt6AonRw_aem_p_5qif8-0939bvQMplVTFw

[Yervant1]

Sept 8 2024

 

 

Iran-Russia tensions rise over Armenian corridor

 

By bne Tehran bureau September 8, 2024

Iran has firmly restated its opposition to the proposed Zangezur corridor, which would connect Azerbaijan to its exclave of Nakhchivan through Armenian territory, following recent statements of support for the project from Russian officials.

The controversy erupted after Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly expressed support for the corridor in a conversation with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, according to Baku-based media outlets. This was followed by an official statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasising the necessity of establishing the Zangezur corridor.

In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a strong rebuke, stating, "Any threat to the territorial integrity of our neighbours, or redrawing of borders, whether in the north, south, east or west, is completely unacceptable and a red line for Iran."

This position was echoed by other senior Iranian officials. Ali Nikzad, Deputy Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, tweeted, "We do not accept changes in borders. My advice to Russia and Azerbaijan is to respect borders."

The head of the Parliament's National Security Commission also said the Zangezur corridor is a "red line" for Iran.

These statements align with earlier comments from Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who told the Armenian Prime Minister during a recent meeting that "The Islamic Republic of Iran considers the Zangezur corridor detrimental to Armenia and continues to stand firm on this position."

Mohsen Rezaei, a member of Iran’s Expediency Council, also criticised the behaviour of the Russian officials regarding the Zangezur, saying in a tweet that it is in clear contradiction with their expressions of friendship and strategic relations with Iran.

“These ambiguities should be resolved,” he said.

Mehdi Sobhani, Iran’s ambassador to Armenia, said in an interview with local media that “dreams about Zangezur will never be realised”.

He said Iran is not against unblocking of transit routes, but is against control by representatives of other countries and maintains that any communication should be under the territorial and national sovereignty of Armenia.

Iranian parliamentarians have also voiced their concerns.

Ebrahim Azizi, head of the national security and foreign policy commission of the parliament emphasised that any action regarding the corridor will be met with Iran’s strong reaction.

“The Zangezur is basically a fake corridor, and it seems that there are hands at work to use this corridor as a pretext to diminish Iran's military and political power in the region. We warn those who pursue such illusions that the consequences of such decisions will be heavy and costly for them,” he said on September 7.

The dispute has highlighted tensions in Iran's relations with Russia, traditionally seen as an ally in the region amid growing mistrust between the two sides after supporting each other in their respective regions.

Iranian officials stress that while they value partnerships with countries like Russia, they will not compromise on issues they consider vital to national security and regional stability.

The controversy has been seized upon by Iran's reformist press, with several newspapers running front-page stories criticizing Russia's stance.

Headlines such as "Putin's Danger" and "Backstabbing Iran" were prominent, reflecting a desire among some political factions to portray the government's eastern-oriented foreign policy as misguided.

Critics of the reformist media, however, accuse these outlets of hypocrisy, noting their tendency to downplay or ignore actions by Western countries that go against Iran's interests.

Public opinion in Iran appears divided on the issue. "We don't compromise on our interests with anyone. We stand firm and unwavering on our red lines," said one Tehran resident, reflecting the government's stance.

Another citizen commented, "The reformists' sensitivity to this issue is selective. They don't show the same concern when it comes to Western countries' actions."

Earlier on September 2, Iran reportedly summoned the Russian ambassador to the foreign ministry over the comments.

During the meeting with Russian Ambassador Alexei Dedov, Mojtaba Damirchi Lou, Director General of Eurasia for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stressed the need to respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity as a basis for sustainable peace and regional cooperation.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is also set to meet his Russian counterpart President Putin for the first time at the upcoming BRICS summit in Kazan on October 22.

Iran officially joined BRICS on January 1 and has been growing in importance in the group along with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, who also joined in the same session.

https://www.intellinews.com/iran-russia-tensions-rise-over-armenian-corridor-342338/?source=armenia

[Yervant1]

Sept 8 2024

 

 

Tension Over Zangezur Corridor Persists Amid Iran’s Opposition, Regional Fear – OpEd

 September 8, 2024  1 Comment

By Fuad Muxtar-Agbabali

Tehran is increasingly focused on the political and economic developments in the South Caucasus, making all-out efforts to position itself as a key player in the ongoing regional realignment. Despite facing tough international sanctions and external challenges, Iran’s influence in the region remains significantly weaker than Russia and Türkiye. Nevertheless, Tehran is actively working to strengthen its foothold, particularly by aligning with Armenia to counterbalance the Turkish-Azerbaijani alliance.

 

Tehran’s focus on the South Caucasus

Iran’s partnership with Armenia serves multiple purposes. Primarily, it aims to curb the expanding influence of Türkiye and Azerbaijan in the region, while also potentially giving Tehran access to Black Sea ports – a strategic advantage in bypassing sanctions against its energy and banking sectors. The alliance with Armenia also provides Iran with a tool to resist the regional integration initiatives led by its rivals, particularly the Zangazur Corridor, which Tehran views as a direct challenge to its geopolitical interests.

The Zangezur Corridor: A source of tension

The Zangezur Corridor, a project spearheaded by Azerbaijan after its victory in the 2020 Karabakh War, has emerged as a major source of tension in the region. Supported by Türkiye, this corridor is envisioned as a vital transit route connecting Azerbaijan with its exclave, Nakhchivan, and further linking Türkiye to Central Asia. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev has emphasized that the project aligns with his country’s national and historical interests, asserting that it will proceed regardless of Armenia’s opposition.

However, Armenia views the project as a threat to its sovereignty. Under the terms of the 2020 trilateral ceasefire agreement, the corridor would pass through Armenian territory without Armenian control, instead being overseen by Russian security forces. Armenia’s government fears that this arrangement would undermine its territorial integrity and has pushed for guarantees that it will eventually assume control over the corridor. This opposition has delayed progress, prompting calls from Baku for regional pressure on Armenia to move forward with the project.

Iran’s opposition & misconceptions

Tehran has reacted strongly against the possible opening of the Zengazur Corridor, citing concerns over regional stability and its own strategic interests. Iranian officials have argued that the project is part of a broader effort by Türkiye and Azerbaijan to diminish Iran’s influence in the South Caucasus. Tehran fears that the corridor would cut off its access to Armenia, disrupting trade routes and weakening its geopolitical standing.

However, this concern is not grounded in historical facts. The proposed route of the Zangezur Corridor mirrors an existing Soviet-era railway line that ran through the same territory without any negative impact on Iran’s connections with Armenia. Despite this, Iranian officials continue to voice opposition, suggesting that the corridor is a geopolitical maneuver aimed at sidelining Iran in favor of Turkish and Azerbaijani interests.

 

Russia’s calculated support and Iran’s concerns

Moscow’s position on the Zangezur Corridor has added further complexity to the situation. Russia, which maintains a military presence in Armenia and controls key sectors of its economy, stands to benefit from the corridor’s opening as it would create a more stable land route for Russian goods, especially military supplies, to Armenia. Political analysts argue that the corridor could help Russia reduce its dependence on Iranian routes, especially after the deterioration of relations with Georgia in 2008.

Despite this, Iran has been vocal in its criticism of Moscow’s support for the project. Iranian media outlets have condemned Russia’s backing of the Zangezur Corridor, viewing it as an alignment with NATO interests via Türkiye’s involvement. Iran fears that the corridor will facilitate Western -particularly NATO – influence in the region, allowing Türkiye to strengthen its ties with Central Asia and potentially expand NATO’s presence. This perception has led Tehran to intensify its diplomatic efforts to prevent the corridor’s completion.

Tehran’s broader geopolitical concerns

Beyond the Zangezur Corridor, Iran’s broader geopolitical anxieties are linked to the shifting balance of power in the region. Iran sees Türkiye as a growing threat, not only due to its military strength but also because of its close ties with NATO. The intensification of Türkiye’s political, economic, and military partnership with Azerbaijan is viewed by Tehran as a move that could marginalize Iran’s role in regional affairs.

Iranian officials, including deceased Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, have publicly declared that any attempt to alter the borders in the South Caucasus is a “red line” for Tehran. In October 2020, Tehran even opened a consulate in the Armenian city of Kapan to signal its commitment to defending its interests along the Armenian border. The move was a clear message to both Baku and Ankara that Iran will not tolerate any changes that threaten its position.

Potential impacts on regional dynamics

The opening of the Zangezur Corridor is seen as a pivotal development that could reshape the political and economic landscape of the South Caucasus. For Azerbaijan, it offers the opportunity to reestablish direct land access to Nakhchivan, significantly boosting its regional influence. For Türkiye, the corridor represents a chance to strengthen its position as a major transit hub, while also reducing its dependence on Iranian routes for trade.

For Iran, however, the corridor is a symbol of its diminishing influence. Tehran’s resistance to the project reflects its broader fears of being sidelined in the region, as Azerbaijan and Türkiye solidify their partnership with the backing of Russia. Iran’s opposition may continue to be a roadblock to the project’s completion, but its ability to prevent the corridor’s opening is limited, given the strong support it enjoys from key regional powers.

Conclusion: A regional power play

The ongoing dispute over the Zangezur Corridor underscores the complex web of geopolitical rivalries in the South Caucasus. Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Russia all stand to gain from the corridor’s opening, while Iran and Armenia remain deeply concerned about its potential consequences.

Tehran’s vocal opposition, rooted in both historical misconceptions and contemporary geopolitical concerns, reflects its anxiety over the shifting balance of power in the region. Whether through diplomatic negotiations or regional pressure, the outcome of this dispute will have far-reaching implications for the future of the South Caucasus.

https://www.eurasiareview.com/08092024-tension-over-zangezur-corridor-persists-amid-irans-opposition-regional-fear-oped/

[Yervant1]

IRNA, Iran

Sept 10 2024

 

 

Armenia says no power can disrupt its road connections with Iran

 

Tehran, IRNA – Armen Grigoryan, the secretary of the National Security Council of Armenia, has stressed that no power would be able to disrupt his country's road connections with Iran.

Armenia’s state Armenpress news agency said that the official made the remarks in a meeting in Yerevan on Monday with Iran’s ambassador to Armenia Mehdi Sobhani. 

During the meeting, the Iranian ambassador highlighted Iran’s opposition to any geopolitical change in the region, which was welcomed by the Armenian official.

He also stressed Tehran’s support for the territorial integrity of its neighbors.

The Armenian top security official, for his part, said that the joint border between Iran and Armenia is the border of peace, friendship and peaceful coexistence, adding that no country can disrupt road connections between the two nations.

https://en.irna.ir/news/85591882/Armenia-says-no-power-can-disrupt-its-road-connections-with-Iran

[Yervant1]

Sept 19 2024

 

 

Iran to open shopping centre in Armenia

 

By bne Tehran bureau September 19, 2024

Iran is set to open a large trade centre in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, on October 1, officials announced on September 19.

The 18,000-square-metre facility, designed in partnership with Iran's Trade Promotion Organisation (TPO), will be the first foreign-owned trade centre in the Armenian capital and part of Iran's outreach efforts to regional markets to flog its wares. 

The new complex will feature an exhibition space with 107 pavilions and a conference hall for various sector representatives. It will also include areas designated for events such as festivals, meetings, and conferences.

“Pars Hilal Caspian Company, as a private company, with official permission from the Trade Promotion Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran, established Iran’s trade centre in Armenia on a land of over 18,000 square meters to develop business relations and benefit from the capacity of the powerful private sector to achieve the country’s export goals in one of the best business locations,” the trade centre wrote.

Businesses on display include Iran Tobacco Company, IKCO, the national car producer, Tehran-based Mihan Ice Cream and a host of other local producers from the domestic Iranian market.

Iran's Minister of Industry and representatives from the country's business community are expected to attend the opening ceremony on October 1.

The trade centre's establishment comes amid Iran's efforts to expand its economic influence in the region, particularly as it faces ongoing international sanctions.

Armenian officials have not yet commented on the potential economic impact of this new trade hub on local businesses or bilateral trade volumes.

https://www.intellinews.com/iran-to-open-shopping-centre-in-armenia-344310/

[MosJan]

 

[Yervant1]

Armenpress.am

 

Iran16:56, 30 September 2024

Iranian Trade Center, biggest in the world, opens in Armenia

Read the article in: العربيةEspañolفارسیFrançaisՀայերեն简体中文

 

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 30, ARMENPRESS. The Iranian Trade Center was inaugurated in Yerevan on September 30. 

Iranian Minister of Industry, Mines and Trade Mohammad Atabak visited Armenia to attend the ceremony. 

Iranian Ambassador to Armenia Mehdi Sobhani said the trade center is the largest Iranian center in the world, which, in his words, is a testament to the deep friendship between Armenia and Iran.

The purpose of the trade center is to develop and enhance trade-economic ties between the two countries.

Sobhani said that the trade turnover between Armenia and Iran has increased and hoped that the center will further boost the economic ties.

He said the Iranian side is determined and ready to utilize the potential to maximally develop mutually beneficial partnership in all areas.

“The leaders of our countries have strong political will to further develop and deepen cooperation,” he said. “The leaders of our countries have outlined a threshold of trade turnover of three billion dollars, thus we must make all efforts to realize this goal.”

He thanked the Armenian government for the favorable conditions for Iranian companies in Armenia.

 

 

 

Published by Armenpress, original at https://armenpress.am/en/article/1201067?fbclid=IwY2xjawFoZahleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHckFwq_YcqQR-7moUovkTk8gs_zgMB97VJ6pbagnQEugPmWociksvyxjoA_aem_ErHHPq3rwod765DYKG9uvA

[MosJan]

 

[MosJan]

Iran is using ballistic missiles to heat Israel

[MosJan]

Iran launches missile attack on Israel, but Israeli military says no casualties reported

[MosJan]

 

[MosJan]

 

[MosJan]

 

[MosJan]

 

[Yervant1]

Armenpress.am

 

10:29, 2 October 2024

Iran says attack on Israel is over, Netanyahu vows to hit back

Read the article in: فارسیFrançaisՀայերենРусский

 

YEREVAN, OCTOBER 2, ARMENPRESS. Iran said on Wednesday its missile attack on Israel, its biggest military assault on the Jewish state, was over, barring further provocation, while Israel and the United States promised to retaliate against Tehran as fears of a wider war intensified, Reuters reported.

Despite calls for a ceasefire from the United Nations, the United States and the European Union, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continued on Wednesday.

Israel renewed its bombardment of Beirut's southern suburbs, a stronghold of the Iran-backed armed Hezbollah group, with at least a dozen airstrikes against what it said were targets belonging the group.

Large plumes of smoke were seen rising from parts of the suburbs. Israel issued new evacuation orders for the area, which has largely emptied after days of heavy strikes.

Hezbollah said it confronted Israeli forces infiltrating the Lebanese town of Adaisseh early on Wednesday and forced them to retreat.

Iran described Tuesday's assault on Israel as defensive and solely aimed at its military facilities. Iran's state news agency said three Israeli military bases had been targeted.

Tehran said its assault was a response to Israeli killings of militant leaders and aggression in Lebanon against Hezbollah and in Gaza.

"Our action is concluded unless the Israeli regime decides to invite further retaliation. In that scenario, our response will be stronger and more powerful," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said in a post on X early on Wednesday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to hit back. "Iran made a big mistake tonight - and it will pay for it," he said at the outset of an emergency political security cabinet meeting late on Tuesday, according to a statement.

Washington said it would work with longtime ally Israel to ensure Iran faced "severe consequences" for Tuesday's attack, which Israel said involved more than 180 ballistic missiles.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke to Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant late on Tuesday and said Washington was "well-postured" to defend its interests in the Middle East, the Pentagon said in a statement.

"The minister and I expressed mutual appreciation for the coordinated defense of Israel against nearly 200 ballistic missiles launched by Iran and committed to remain in close contact," Austin said separately in a post on X.

U.S. Navy warships fired about a dozen interceptors against Iranian missiles headed toward Israel, the Pentagon said. Britain said its forces played a part "in attempts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East", without elaborating.

The United Nations Security Council scheduled a meeting about the Middle East conflict for Wednesday, and the European Union called for an immediate ceasefire.

 

Nearly 1,900 people have been killed and more than 9,000 wounded in Lebanon in almost a year of cross-border fighting, most in the past two weeks, Lebanese government statistics showed on Tuesday.

 

 

 

Published by Armenpress, original at https://armenpress.am/en/article/1201237?fbclid=IwY2xjawFqt1FleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHcfn4HKVRZ6XhA4or86vak0y2MCSCcv1P5BO_nCvwm4l7LBcX8zbXIoCLA_aem_d006O094CMi_CpslV3oTTg

[Yervant1]

Armenpress.am

 

12:24, 2 October 2024

Israel plans massive Iran payback – Axios

Read the article in: FrançaisՀայերենРусский

 

YEREVAN, OCTOBER 2, ARMENPRESS. Israeli officials have told Axios Israel will launch a "significant retaliation" to Tuesday's massive missile attack within days that could target oil production facilities inside Iran and other strategic sites.

Iran threatened on Tuesday that if Israel responds with force to the nearly 200 missiles it launched on Tuesday, it will attack again.

If that happens, Israeli officials told Axios all options will be on the table, including strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities.

"We have a big question mark about how the Iranians are going to respond to an attack, but we take into consideration the possibility that they would go all in, which will be a whole different ball game," an Israeli official told Axios.

Many Israeli officials point to Iran's oil facilities as a likely target, but some say targeted assassinations and taking out Iran's air defense systems are also possibilities.

[Yervant1]

Sept 3 2024

 

Tensions Rise as Iran Opposes the Zangezur Corridor, Complicating Relations with Azerbaijan and Armenia

 

 

Brigadier General Reza Talaei-Nik, the spokesperson for the Iranian Defence Ministry, recently issued a pointed statement, openly threatening Azerbaijan. His comments were directed at the possibility of opening the Zangezur Corridor, which would connect mainland Azerbaijan with the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. This strip of land, currently separated by Armenian territory, has been a key subject of geopolitical discussions not only between Baku and Yerevan but also involving Russia.

The corridor’s opening is a significant point of contention in the region. Russia has been adamant that the route, once established, should be under the control of its Federal Security Service (FSB), as outlined in a post-conflict agreement between the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia following the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War. For Moscow, securing control of this route would ensure its continued influence in the South Caucasus, a region critical to its strategic interests.

However, Moscow’s ambitions are clashing with the interests of its regional ally, Iran. Tehran, for its part, is attempting to derail any agreements between Armenia and Azerbaijan regarding the Zangezur Corridor. Iran has its own strategic aspirations for the region and prefers to promote transport routes that run through its territory. This would give Tehran significant leverage over both Baku and Yerevan, making them more reliant on Iranian infrastructure rather than Russian-controlled routes.

Iran’s motivations stem from a broader geopolitical agenda. If Azerbaijan were to become dependent on Iran for logistics, Tehran could challenge Baku’s delicate balancing act between Russia and the West. This is particularly important for Azerbaijan, which in recent years has strengthened ties with Turkey and established energy partnerships with Western countries—moves perceived as vital for its sovereignty and security. The alliance with Turkey, especially, is seen as one of the key pillars of Azerbaijan’s survival in a volatile region.

Iran is also concerned about the growing military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Israel, particularly in light of its ongoing tensions with Tel Aviv. Tehran may see Azerbaijan’s strategic ties with Israel as a direct threat, especially as tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate. By trying to influence Azerbaijan’s logistics and foreign policy, Iran hopes to limit the country’s ability to manoeuvre between regional and global powers.

At the same time, Armenia finds itself in a precarious position. Yerevan views Iran as a potential stabilising force in the region and has sought to maintain cordial relations with Tehran. However, Iran’s international isolation due to its strained relations with Western nations, especially the United States and European countries like France, complicates Armenia’s foreign policy. As the Middle East faces increasing instability, the risk of escalation between Iran and its adversaries, particularly Israel and Western countries, could exacerbate tensions in the Caucasus.

For Azerbaijan, developing close ties with Turkey and maintaining energy partnerships with the West are crucial for its foreign policy strategy. Western countries are keen to diversify their energy sources away from Russia, and Azerbaijan’s role as an energy partner has only grown in importance as a result. In contrast, Armenia, while reliant on Iran for regional stability, is simultaneously seeking security guarantees from countries that are in conflict with Tehran, such as the United States. As Iran’s influence in the region increases, it may place greater pressure on Armenia to reduce its ties with Iran’s adversaries.

This complex regional dynamic also draws in external powers like Turkey and the United States, which are monitoring how relations between the Caucasus countries and Iran are evolving. Turkey, as Azerbaijan’s main ally, is particularly wary of any moves that could undermine Baku’s independence or strengthen Tehran’s hand in the region. Similarly, the United States, as a supporter of Armenia in its efforts to establish security ties, is concerned about the growing influence of Iran in the region and its implications for broader regional stability.

Amidst these shifting alliances, Moscow finds itself watching Iran’s moves closely. Iran’s involvement in the region has, to some extent, disrupted Russia’s plans to establish itself as the dominant player following the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War. Moscow’s ambition to control the Zangezur Corridor and solidify its presence in the Caucasus has been challenged by Tehran’s attempts to promote alternative routes. Russia, under President Vladimir Putin, is keen to avoid any miscalculations and is likely to hold other actors responsible for its setbacks in maintaining influence in the region.

The broader implications of these tensions are far-reaching. As Iran continues to issue veiled threats towards Azerbaijan and align itself with Armenia, the risk of further destabilisation in the region increases. With Tehran already embroiled in conflicts across the Middle East, any attempt to open a “second front” in the Caucasus could have serious consequences.

https://eutoday.net/iran-opposes-the-zangezur-corridor/

[Yervant1]

Armenpress.am

 

Iran20:11, 9 October 2024

Iran claims to have destroyed a significant number of F-35 fighters in a missile strike on Israel

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 9, ARMENPRESS. Iran’s recent retaliatory missile strike against Israeli military targets has annihilated a remarkable number of Israeli F-35 fighter jets, an adviser to the commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said, reports Tasnim News Agency.

Addressing a conference in Tehran on Wednesday, Brigadier General Ebrahim Jabbari said 90 percent of the missiles that Iran fired against the Israeli regime in the operation on October 1 successfully hit their targets.

During the missile strike, the IRGC carried out “cyber and electronic warfare operations” simultaneously against the Israeli regime’s air defense systems, allowing for the missiles to hit the targets, the Iranian general added.

According to Jabbari, Iran’s ballistic missiles have successfully hit the Israeli regime’s important bases and hangars of F-35 fighter jets, detonating a remarkable number of those warplanes.

''Israel and the US were totally caught by military and intelligence surprise although they had employed all of their advanced equipment to ward off the Iranian strike,'' he noted.

 

 

 

Published by Armenpress, original at https://armenpress.am/en/article/1201889?fbclid=IwY2xjawF0AWpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHSF0S_kiLQRtlazWw8h5jarIknjKgKM4QiqlQTdt658CYmx7Px4IxHnaWw_aem_gVVB0ngMji_9BN8y0Gte8A

[Yervant1]

Armenpress.am

 

Azerbaijan20:15, 14 October 2024

Iranian President warns Azerbaijan about consequences of creating foothold for foreign states in the region

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The president of Iran warned the Republic of Azerbaijan of the unfortunate consequences of outsiders establishing a foothold in the region.

At a meeting with Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev in Tehran, Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian reiterated Iran's respect for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, Tasnim reports.

Iran maintains that the sovereignty of no state should be disregarded, Pezeshkian said, warning, however, that the establishment of the foreign countries’ foothold in the region would not be in the interests of the regional nations.

“We believe that we can ensure security and address our problems through cooperation. This is the principled policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s administration, which we have always emphasized,” Tasnim quoted Pezeshkian as saying.

 

 

 

Published by Armenpress, original at https://armenpress.am/en/article/1202261?fbclid=IwY2xjawF64ctleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHV6b1J4vtlBxeihNc9lAzWqBduMHRzyKz0kHvxUH2aznO9zfConcXIIAbg_aem_45cMj0iPXxVCb2LFzgHp6w