Iran’s Shifting Position on Nagorno-Karabakh

This info pack examines Iran’s foreign policy toward Nagorno-Karabakh in the context of Tehran’s relations with both Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Although Karabakh is internationally recognised as Azerbaijani territory, the self-declared Nagorno-Karabakh Republic continues to exist as a subordinate structure established by Armenia in the occupied territory. This info pack seeks to explore Iran’s position in the conflict. Tehran has consistently endorsed the territorial unity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan. At the same time, it has demonstrated itself to be a reliable economic partner and neighbour for Armenia. In the past, Iran took a vocal stance on the conflict and has previously offered to mediate between the parties on several occasions. Currently however, Iran’s increasing partnership with Armenia and the separatist regime in Nagorno-Karabakh has added complexity to an already complex regional dynamic. This info pack examines Iran’s foreign policy toward Nagorno-Karabakh in the context of Tehran’s relations with both Armenia and Azerbaijan. It also looks into current developments and the shifting security paradigm in the region.