Political scientist: Iran must  take proactive measures  to  neutralize many of the risks

ArmInfo. Iran has always opposed the presence of third parties in the region, as stated  by Aram Shahnazaryan, Iranian political scientist and editor-in-chief of the "Alik" newspaper, during a discussion on the topic "The South Caucasus: Regrouping of Forces."

In his opinion, any presence of the United States, including through  the TRIPP project, or another Western country in Armenia could lead  to NATO involvement in the region, with all the consequences for  Tehran.  The latter sees this as a threat to its security and the  loss of its ability to ensure transit through Armenia.

In this situation, Iran will act in one of two ways: either as a  confrontational force or as an initiator.  However, as the political  scientist noted, if Tehran chooses the path of confrontation, its  options will be severely limited. Of course, in this case, Iran could  try to resolve the problems in tandem with Russia, but even then,  success is not guaranteed.

Shahnazaryan also highlighted Tehran's proactive approach, suggesting  the creation of multi-format platforms involving interested countries  in various areas such as economics, investments, and security-  related platforms. The expert, emphasized the importance of  activating the Rasht-Astara railway, as well as implementing other  projects with Russia. Additionally, he stressed the need to intensify  the regional "3+3" format. Involving extra-regional players in such  platforms would help neutralize many existing risks for Iran, the  political scientist believes.

It is worth noting that earlier today, Russian Energy Minister Sergei  Tsivilev, on the sidelines of the Intergovernmental Commission on  Trade and Economic Cooperation between Russia and Iran, told  reporters that the practical implementation of the Rasht-Astara  railway project as part of the North-South international transport  corridor would begin on April 1, 2026. According to the Minister of  Energy, the parties have successfully resolve all the contentious  issues that were hindering the project's launch.

"The North-South Corridor is not only an energy corridor, but also a  transport one. The construction of the Rasht-Astara railway line is  linked to it. We have addressed virtually all the previously  outstanding issues, including land registration and obtaining  benefits. We said today that the final agreement for the launch of  this project will be reached on April 1, during Russian Transport  Week," TASS quotes Tsivilev as saying.