Iran has once again reiterated its opposition to Baku’s insistence on creating a land corridor through Armenia to Nakhichevan, stressing the importance of preserving the territorial integrity of countries in the region. Iran’s Ambassador to Armenia, Mehdi Sobhani, emphasized that Iran’s position on regional developments has not changed. He stated that Iran is against any geopolitical changes in the region and considers changing borders as a “red line.” Sobhani also questioned whether the states advocating for an extraterritorial corridor through Armenia would be willing to allow similar routes through their own territory.

Regarding the forced displacement of Artsakh Armenians, the Iranian ambassador condemned military responses to regional problems and emphasized the need for dialogue and peaceful communication. He suggested that Armenia and Azerbaijan engage in direct talks to reach mutual understanding and establish a stable peace. Sobhani also highlighted the importance of regional support for agreements between Armenia and Azerbaijan in achieving permanent and stable peace.

In terms of humanitarian assistance to refugees from Artsakh, Sobhani stated that it was the least neighboring countries could do. He shared his conversation with Armenian settlers in Kapan, who expressed their desire to return to their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh if the necessary conditions for their safety were met. The Iranian ambassador also mentioned the significance of Iran’s newly-opened consulate in Kapan, which has facilitated traffic, resolved issues for drivers, and increased trade turnover between Iran and Armenia. He expressed hope for the opening of an Armenian consulate in Tabriz in the near future.