Iranian Diplomatic Studies

Iranian Diplomatic Studies

A Analysis of the Zangezur Conflict from the Perspective of Verbowski's Network Geopolitics and Its Effects on the Power of Iranian Diplomacy

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 PhD student in Eurasian Studies, Istanbul University
2 Associate Professor of Turkish Studies, Department of West Asian and African Studies, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Due to its geopolitical position and proximity to countries like Iran, Turkey, and Russia, the Caucasus has always played a significant role in regional dynamics and has historically served as an essential route for international transit. The initial effects of this shift are seen in the emergence of new non-state actors, some sub-national, along with the destabilization of borders.
This study seeks to answer the question of what impact the construction of the Zangezur Corridor will have on international politics, the balance of power, and the stability of borders, as well as what the primary objectives of its actors are in this contentious engagement. It appears that with the potential construction of this corridor, the control of state units in the Caucasus and Central Asia may be somewhat reduced, leading to the emergence of new actors. Furthermore, these countries, positioned as nodes within this new geopolitical area, will gain exceptional importance.
The research method used in this study is a "explanatory" research approach, which seeks to identify the cause-and-effect relationship between the variables of a phenomenon.
Keywords