Iran-Armenia relations, presented for many years as “stable and problem-free” in the South Caucasus, no longer continue along their previous trajectory. Processes occurring in recent months indicate a deepening distrust between the parties, and this cooling is not limited solely to diplomatic rhetoric.
Modern.az has analyzed the latest situation in Iran-Armenia relations.
Protest against Armenian officials in mass demonstrations in Iran
Iran's Ambassador to Armenia, Khalil Shirghulami, made a controversial statement regarding the protests in Iran during an interview with “Sputnik Armenia” on January 14. He stated that an impression is forming in Tehran that Armenia is becoming a center for forces hostile to Iran.
According to the Ambassador, if the ongoing protests in Iran succeed, Armenia will be one of the affected parties. With these remarks, he claimed that the protests could lead to regional consequences.
Khalil Shirghulami also expressed his concern about the protest actions held in front of the Iranian embassy in Armenia and the “disrespectful and insulting slogans” voiced there.
The Ambassador emphasized that such actions would remain in the memory of Iranian society and reminded that Tehran stood by Armenia during difficult times.
It should be noted that, according to information released by Armenia's Diaspora Commissioner's Office, 2 Armenians were killed as a result of mass protests and riots in Iran.
Cancellation of flights from Iran to Armenia
Iran has always openly declared that its relations with Armenia are strategic. However, recent statements concerning Armenia may suggest a weakening of relations between the two countries.
Serious disagreements arising around the Zangezur corridor and the TRIPP route, protest actions held in front of the Iranian embassy in Yerevan, as well as the harsh and unusual statements made by Iran's Ambassador to Armenia regarding this country, clearly indicate an increase in distrust in relations.
In this context, the cancellation of Tehran-Yerevan flights can be regarded not merely as a technical or commercial decision, but perhaps also as a silent yet noteworthy message delivered on the diplomatic front.
Finally, it should be noted that Armenia has seriously engaged in cooperation with the West, and this is not at all to Iran's liking. The deployment of the European Observation Mission in Armenia, cooperation with the US in the defense sector, and the possibility of conducting joint military exercises irritate Iran. Thus, it is clear that Iran is disappointed with Armenia, which it once viewed as a strategic partner.
