International powers in the Gulf region express approval for the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace agreement, following its announcement at the White House.
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a joint declaration at the White House, marking an end to their long-standing conflict. The agreement, hailed as a "historic step" by Saudi Arabia and a "major development" by the EU, has sparked varied reactions from other Middle Eastern countries.
Iran, while expressing cautious support for the deal, emphasizes the importance of respect for regional sovereignty and territorial integrity. Tehran appreciates the removal of the contentious Zangezur Corridor, viewing it as a positive development that leads to a transit road under Armenia’s full sovereignty. However, Iran warns against outside powers' involvement, advocating that lasting peace should come from regional cooperation without external pressure. Iran presents itself as a potential "responsible neighbor and reliable partner" if these principles are upheld.
Israel views the deal as a U.S. strategic gain, diminishing Russian and Iranian influence in the region while increasing U.S. sway. The peace agreement aligns Armenia more with Western powers such as the EU and the United States, which Iran sees as setbacks to its regional influence following Syria and Hezbollah's decline. Israel recognizes the shift toward U.S. influence through the peace deal, which advances Armenia’s democratic reforms and Western orientation despite internal Armenian skepticism about the concessions.
Other Middle Eastern countries, such as Gulf countries, have not provided detailed public reactions to the deal. However, the regional power dynamic shift toward U.S. influence and away from Russia and Iran is a common theme. The peace deal’s sidelining of Russia and the EU in favor of U.S.-brokered efforts, highlighted in meetings like Abu Dhabi, suggests changing alliances impacting broader Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Jordan describes the deal as "historic" and believes it will contribute to strengthening peace and security in the South Caucasus. Kuwait praises Washington's mediation in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process and expresses hope for greater stability and prosperity for both nations. Oman underlines the critical role played by the United States in the peace process.
The peace deal positions the United States at the center of the South Caucasus peace process, marking a significant change in the regional landscape. As the region moves toward a more stable future, the international community will continue to watch closely for further developments.
- Turkey, with a keen interest in regional politics, is closely monitoring the peace deal between Azerbaijan and Armenia, as the resolution could impact Turkiye's economy and foreign policy.
- The Turkish President, in a statement, articulated Turkiye's support for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, expressing optimism over the end to the conflict and the potential for increased trade with both Armenia and Russia.
- Despite the celebratory echoes of the peace deal, concerns about the general news of possible war-and-conflicts in the South Caucasus persist, given the complexity of the historical issues involved.
- As Russia adjusts to its decreased influence in the South Caucasus following the Azerbaijan-Armenia deal, Moscow is expected to redefine its policy-and-legislation regarding the region to maintained its strategic interests, while maintaining diplomatic ties with all parties involved.
