ANALYZING THE FACTORS INFLUENCING IRAN – AZERBAIJAN RELATIONS IN THE WAKE OF THE NAGORNO – KARABAKH CONFLICT

Abstract

This article analyzes the tumults Iran-Azerbaijan foreign relations, with a special focus on the factors that have shaped the historic trajectory of their relationship. This paper describes that Iran’s covert support of Armenia in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has germinated differences between the two states, while also delving on the history of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This paper shows with examples that it is realpolitik that drives the foreign policy of both the states, such as material or geo-strategic gains, then any ideological or religious motives. The paper also analyzes the role of global powers such as America, Russia, Israel and Turkey in shaping the trajectory of Iran-Azerbaijan relations. How a third country (Armenia) can play a pivotal role in the trajectory of foreign relations of two countries (Iran and Azerbaijan) has been elaborated with supporting evidence. It traces the historical roots of the paranoia that Iran and Azerbaijan have against each other, such as Iran’s the fear of rising Azeri national consciousness in Iran ad Azerbaijan’s apprehensions related to Iran’s expansionist aims. The paper concludes on how relations can be improved between the two states, i.e., by solving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, fostering common interests and ideologies, and respecting each other’s sovereignty.