Iran offers to mediate peace accord between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Iran has offered to facilitate the signing of a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as the two countries move closer to resolving their long-standing conflict over Karabakh.

Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-e-Ravanchi said Tehran remained committed to good neighbourly relations and was prepared to assist both Yerevan and Baku in finalising the accord, Caliber.Az reports citing Iranian media.

Speaking to reporters, Takht-e-Ravanchi described the agreement as vital for regional stability and encouraged both parties to look ahead rather than dwell on past grievances. He noted that the draft treaty was ready to be signed without delay.

He reiterated Iran’s opposition to any breach of territorial integrity and said military action should never be used to seize the land of another country.

Calling for greater regional cooperation, the Iranian official stressed the need for dialogue rooted in mutual respect and international law.

Armenia has previously announced that the final draft of the peace agreement is complete, and that it is ready to begin talks on the formalities of signing, raising hopes of a possible resolution to one of the region’s most entrenched conflicts.

Note that, as of mid-April 2025, Armenia and Azerbaijan have concluded negotiations on a draft peace treaty, signalling a significant step toward resolving their longstanding conflict. The United States has commended this development, urging both nations to sign and ratify the agreement promptly to usher in a new era of prosperity in the South Caucasus. ​

The finalized draft includes key provisions: Armenia's acceptance of Azerbaijan's proposals on the remaining disputed articles, and a mutual commitment to continue dialogue for comprehensive normalization. Azerbaijan emphasizes the necessity for Armenia to amend its constitution to eliminate territorial claims against Azerbaijan's sovereignty, viewing this as a crucial step before finalizing the agreement. ​

International leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres and officials from the UK, Italy, and the UAE, have expressed strong support for the progress made, highlighting the potential for lasting peace and stability in the region. ​

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Azerbaijan insists on the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group and seeks assurances against the deployment of third-party military forces along the border. Additionally, Armenia's constitutional amendments and the withdrawal of legal claims in international courts are pending issues that require resolution.

By Aghakazim Guliyev