Iran has formally reaffirmed its stance that the Armenian residents of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) should have the right to return to their homes, according to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei. Following recent Azerbaijani military actions in 2023, which led to the forced displacement of Artsakh’s Armenian population, Iran’s position underscores the rights of displaced Armenians to a secure return, with guarantees for their lives, property, and rights.
In an interview with Armenpress, Iranian international relations expert Ehsan Movahedian highlighted that Iran stands firmly in support of the rights of Artsakh Armenians, despite acknowledging its limitations in enforcing this stance. Movahedian emphasized that while Iran lacks the means to enforce compliance, it views the protection of these rights as essential and urges Armenia to take diplomatic action in international courts to secure these rights under international law.
Iran’s official position, as outlined by Ayatollah Khamenei, calls for the unconditional return of Artsakh Armenians to their homes, with assurances for their safety and rights. This aligns with Iran’s longstanding commitment to regional stability and minority protections.
Movahedian stressed that Iran views it as Armenia’s responsibility to protect its people’s rights through legal avenues, including international legal action against Azerbaijan. Iran encourages Armenia to mobilize support through legal frameworks and international bodies to reinforce the rights of displaced Artsakh Armenians.
Although supportive, Iran’s role is largely advisory, as it acknowledges its limitations in directly influencing Azerbaijan’s actions. However, Iran’s continued advocacy for Artsakh Armenians is significant, especially given the complex regional dynamics and Tehran’s position as a neighbor to both Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Iran’s stance reflects its dedication to preserving stability and minority rights in the South Caucasus, a region where it has historically played a balancing role. This diplomatic position, supporting Armenian rights in Artsakh, also resonates with Iran’s broader commitment to opposing forced displacement and upholding humanitarian principles in its foreign policy.
Iran’s position on the rights of Artsakh Armenians underscores its support for minority rights and regional stability in the South Caucasus. By calling on Armenia to pursue international legal protections, Iran seeks to strengthen diplomatic efforts that could reinforce Artsakh Armenians’ rights under international law.