Iran’s Bold Move to Thwart U.S. Corridor Plans in the Caucasus Region

In a recent interview, Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior advisor to Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, emphasized Iran’s firm stance against the establishment of an American corridor in the sensitive Caucasus region. This statement comes amidst growing concerns over geopolitical shifts in the area, particularly regarding the proposed Zangezur corridor that aims to connect Azerbaijan with Nakhchivan.

During his conversation with the Tasnim News Agency, Velayati categorically rejected the notion of a corridor that could potentially be developed under a 99-year lease granted to the United States. He stated, “Such a corridor will turn into a graveyard of the mercenaries of Donald Trump, not a route owned by the US president.” This assertion underlines Iran’s determination to prevent foreign influence in the region.

The Caucasus is recognized as one of the world’s most volatile areas, and Velayati reiterated Iran’s longstanding opposition to the Zangezur corridor. He pointed out that the corridor would not only alter the region’s geopolitics but also risk disintegration of Armenia. He noted the widespread opposition to this corridor among the Armenian populace, who fear it would compromise their national integrity.

Key points made by Velayati include:

• Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has previously expressed concerns about the corridor’s potential harms.
• The plan poses serious risks to the security of the South Caucasus region.
• Iran will act to ensure regional security, with or without Russia’s involvement.
• The corridor is seen as a political maneuver by NATO countries to establish a presence in the region.

Velayati further articulated that the Zangezur corridor is not merely a trade route but a significant political strategy aimed against Iran and its neighbors. He warned that, “NATO wants to lie between Iran and Russia like a viper, but Iran will not permit it.” This metaphor highlights Iran’s vigilance against perceived threats from NATO’s expansionist ambitions.

He also referenced Russian President Vladimir Putin’s warnings regarding Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, asserting that Iran will similarly resist NATO encroachment near its northern borders. “We believe that prevention is better than treatment,” he stated, emphasizing the proactive measures Iran intends to take.

In terms of regional connectivity, Velayati noted that Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan do not necessarily require a new corridor, suggesting that existing routes through Iranian territory can facilitate their connection. “The equations and arrangements of this region are not confined to the two countries of Azerbaijan and Armenia,” he explained, asserting Iran’s right to defend its national interests robustly.

Shifting focus to Lebanon, Velayati addressed the American-backed efforts to disarm Hezbollah. He reiterated that such discussions have arisen before, and past attempts have proven futile. He stated, “Resistance will stand against these plots,” underscoring Hezbollah’s role in safeguarding Lebanon from Israeli aggression.

Hezbollah’s strength and resilience were praised by Velayati, who posed critical questions about the Lebanese government’s commitment to protecting its citizens amidst disarmament proposals. He cautioned that if Hezbollah relinquishes its arms, the safety of the Lebanese people would be severely compromised. “The US and the Israeli regime will never manage to appoint another al-Julani in Lebanon,” he asserted, reinforcing Iran’s position against disarmament efforts.

In his comments on Iraq, Velayati highlighted concerns regarding the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), known as Hashd al-Shaabi. He relayed information from former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who indicated that disarmament of the PMU was the next phase of American and Israeli plans following Lebanon. “Both Iran and Iraq will oppose and stand against disarmament,” Velayati stated, drawing parallels between the roles Hezbollah and PMU play in their respective countries.

He warned that the absence of Hashd al-Shaabi would allow the US to exert greater influence in Iraq, similar to its actions in Lebanon. Velayati urged Lebanon’s wise leaders to resist those advocating for disarmament to ensure the continuation of resistance against external pressures.

In closing, Velayati commended the Yemeni forces, labeling them as a vital component of the resistance axis. He noted their control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait and their ongoing efforts against US and allied plans. “The Yemenis have frustrated the Zionist regime and the US,” he asserted, while also expressing optimism about the future resilience of Syrian resistance against Israeli schemes.

This comprehensive overview of Velayati’s statements reflects Iran’s strategic posture in the face of evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Caucasus and the broader Middle East.