Iran Thwarts Turkey's Strategic Corridor Plans Amid Regional Tensions

Iran's Strategic Maneuver Against Turkey
As Iran finds itself embroiled in conflict with Israel, Turkey has been quietly plotting behind the scenes. However, Tehran has managed to turn the tables. Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, revealed that Iran successfully thwarted the 'Zangezur Corridor' plan involving Azerbaijan and Turkey.
The Significance of the Zangezur Corridor
This corridor was intended to connect Azerbaijan to Turkey via Armenia's Syunik province, effectively cutting off Iran's strategic access. Velayati characterized this initiative as a geopolitical conspiracy disguised as a transport project. He asserted that the plan aimed not only to isolate Iran from Europe but also to encircle Russia from the southern front as part of Western strategies.
Iran's Diplomatic Response
Velayati noted that Tehran recognized this maneuver in time and blocked the project through proactive diplomatic efforts. He indirectly criticized the United States, claiming that even former President Joe Biden was aware of the corridor's preparations, although no public records support this.
Background of the Conflict
The dispute traces back to the Nagorno-Karabakh war, where a ceasefire agreement mediated by Russia included a clause about opening transport routes. Azerbaijan viewed this as the Zangezur Corridor, providing a direct link from Nakhchivan to mainland Azerbaijan. Conversely, Armenia contends that this is merely a restoration of traditional routes, maintaining its sovereignty over all pathways.
Turkey's Aspirations Dashed
Turkey was particularly enthusiastic about this corridor. In a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in 2023, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that alternative routes through Iran would be sought if Armenia obstructed the plan. Previously, both nations had signed the Shusha Declaration in 2021, designating this corridor as a strategic hub.
Iran Strengthens Ties with Armenia
Despite the corridor's failure, Iran has been reinforcing its relationship with Armenia. The construction of a third high-voltage transmission line between the two countries is 80% complete, with expectations for it to be operational by 2026. This development is projected to increase electricity trade from 350 megawatts to 1200 megawatts, enhancing the 'gas for power' agreement.