جدیدترین مطالب

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

2026/08/03

Strategic Council Online – Note: Recent developments in the political geography of West Asia, from rising tensions in the Persian Gulf to missile and drone activities in the Red Sea and the recent warning by Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, regarding the threat to freedom of navigation, indicate a key pattern shift; the US-Iran war has moved beyond the scope of a regional and local confrontation and has linked two vital passageways for the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

2026/07/23

SCFR Online – Opinion: Foreign policy analysis is valid when it evaluates decisions based on the information and circumstances prevailing at the time they were made, not on the basis of outcomes that only become apparent after the crisis has ended.

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Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

2025/10/15

Online Strategic Council – Interview: An international affairs expert stated that Iran, by relying on its geo-economic capacities across various fields, should strive to solidify its position as a bridge connecting the Persian Gulf to Eurasia. However, regional and extra-regional competition for influence in Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached a critical point, where Iran’s security considerations and geopolitical red lines could turn the advancement of a multi-faceted strategy into a real test for the diplomatic apparatus.

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

2025/07/22

Strategic Council Online – Analysis: On the verge of finalizing the Baku-Yerevan peace agreement, the recent remarks by Mnatsakan Safaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, regarding the potential handover of the “logistical management” of the Zangezur route to a foreign company have pushed the status of this 32-kilometer strip into a critical phase. The discussion of a foreign operator’s involvement coincides with the meeting between Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi—a meeting that, according to regional media, primarily focused on this blocked route.

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

2024/05/04

Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on Caucasus affairs said: Following news reports that the Kremlin has implicitly confirmed that Russian peacekeepers are withdrawing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region and taking their weapons and equipment with them, this question is seriously raised: Does Russia want to hand over the South Caucasus region to the West?

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

2024/04/28

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A Caucasus affairs expert said: “If the trend of divergence among regional countries, especially Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Russia accelerates, Russians may show a more serious reaction and even prevent the traditional regional order change using force.”

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

2024/04/14

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: An expert on international affairs said: Although NATO, on its 75th birthday, has become more cohesive than three decades ago due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, this does not mean it will not face challenges in its future prospects.

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

2024/04/06

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: In recent months, we have seen Armenia and Azerbaijan strengthen new military-security arrangements. The two countries are developing military and security relations and exchanges with European and extra-regional countries within an “escalating process.” Strengthening the weapons arsenals, reviewing membership in some military pacts, and increasing military purchases are among these measures.
Barsam Mohammadi- Expert of regional issues

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

2024/03/30

Strategic Council Online: The tensions in the Red Sea have made the plan to transfer goods transportation route from the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to the “Middle Corridor” in the Caucasus the talk of the town.

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

2023/12/23

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A researcher of geopolitical affairs considered cooperation in the field of energy as the main priority of relations between Beijing and Baku and stated: The recent agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and China, while covering issues related to the import and export of oil and gas and development of new energies, also helps to advance China’s approach in resolving or reducing tensions in the Caucasus.

Analysis of French Role in Developments of the Caucasus Region

France, with a Cautious Approach, a Forerunner of the EU Policy towards Baku

2023/12/10

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert on European affairs stated that the institutional actions of the European Union against the Republic of Azerbaijan are followed cautiously, and saying that, on the one hand, the European Union does not want to act passively regarding the Caucasus issues, but on the other hand, Europe’s need for this country’s gas has caused it to take cautious steps regarding the sending of military equipment to Armenia, and in this regard, all the military equipment that was made in the agreement between France and Armenia has not been sent. Only defense systems, which are very cautious and more limited than the previous agreement, have been sent.

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Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

2026/08/03

Strategic Council Online – Note: Recent developments in the political geography of West Asia, from rising tensions in the Persian Gulf to missile and drone activities in the Red Sea and the recent warning by Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, regarding the threat to freedom of navigation, indicate a key pattern shift; the US-Iran war has moved beyond the scope of a regional and local confrontation and has linked two vital passageways for the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

2026/07/23

SCFR Online – Opinion: Foreign policy analysis is valid when it evaluates decisions based on the information and circumstances prevailing at the time they were made, not on the basis of outcomes that only become apparent after the crisis has ended.

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Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

2025/10/15

Online Strategic Council – Interview: An international affairs expert stated that Iran, by relying on its geo-economic capacities across various fields, should strive to solidify its position as a bridge connecting the Persian Gulf to Eurasia. However, regional and extra-regional competition for influence in Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached a critical point, where Iran’s security considerations and geopolitical red lines could turn the advancement of a multi-faceted strategy into a real test for the diplomatic apparatus.

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

2025/07/22

Strategic Council Online – Analysis: On the verge of finalizing the Baku-Yerevan peace agreement, the recent remarks by Mnatsakan Safaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, regarding the potential handover of the “logistical management” of the Zangezur route to a foreign company have pushed the status of this 32-kilometer strip into a critical phase. The discussion of a foreign operator’s involvement coincides with the meeting between Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi—a meeting that, according to regional media, primarily focused on this blocked route.

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

2024/05/04

Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on Caucasus affairs said: Following news reports that the Kremlin has implicitly confirmed that Russian peacekeepers are withdrawing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region and taking their weapons and equipment with them, this question is seriously raised: Does Russia want to hand over the South Caucasus region to the West?

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

2024/04/28

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A Caucasus affairs expert said: “If the trend of divergence among regional countries, especially Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Russia accelerates, Russians may show a more serious reaction and even prevent the traditional regional order change using force.”

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

2024/04/14

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: An expert on international affairs said: Although NATO, on its 75th birthday, has become more cohesive than three decades ago due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, this does not mean it will not face challenges in its future prospects.

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

2024/04/06

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: In recent months, we have seen Armenia and Azerbaijan strengthen new military-security arrangements. The two countries are developing military and security relations and exchanges with European and extra-regional countries within an “escalating process.” Strengthening the weapons arsenals, reviewing membership in some military pacts, and increasing military purchases are among these measures.
Barsam Mohammadi- Expert of regional issues

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

2024/03/30

Strategic Council Online: The tensions in the Red Sea have made the plan to transfer goods transportation route from the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to the “Middle Corridor” in the Caucasus the talk of the town.

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

2023/12/23

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A researcher of geopolitical affairs considered cooperation in the field of energy as the main priority of relations between Beijing and Baku and stated: The recent agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and China, while covering issues related to the import and export of oil and gas and development of new energies, also helps to advance China’s approach in resolving or reducing tensions in the Caucasus.

Analysis of French Role in Developments of the Caucasus Region

France, with a Cautious Approach, a Forerunner of the EU Policy towards Baku

2023/12/10

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert on European affairs stated that the institutional actions of the European Union against the Republic of Azerbaijan are followed cautiously, and saying that, on the one hand, the European Union does not want to act passively regarding the Caucasus issues, but on the other hand, Europe’s need for this country’s gas has caused it to take cautious steps regarding the sending of military equipment to Armenia, and in this regard, all the military equipment that was made in the agreement between France and Armenia has not been sent. Only defense systems, which are very cautious and more limited than the previous agreement, have been sent.

Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

2025/10/15

Online Strategic Council – Interview: An international affairs expert stated that Iran, by relying on its geo-economic capacities across various fields, should strive to solidify its position as a bridge connecting the Persian Gulf to Eurasia. However, regional and extra-regional competition for influence in Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached a critical point, where Iran’s security considerations and geopolitical red lines could turn the advancement of a multi-faceted strategy into a real test for the diplomatic apparatus.

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

2025/07/22

Strategic Council Online – Analysis: On the verge of finalizing the Baku-Yerevan peace agreement, the recent remarks by Mnatsakan Safaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, regarding the potential handover of the “logistical management” of the Zangezur route to a foreign company have pushed the status of this 32-kilometer strip into a critical phase. The discussion of a foreign operator’s involvement coincides with the meeting between Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi—a meeting that, according to regional media, primarily focused on this blocked route.

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

2024/05/04

Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on Caucasus affairs said: Following news reports that the Kremlin has implicitly confirmed that Russian peacekeepers are withdrawing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region and taking their weapons and equipment with them, this question is seriously raised: Does Russia want to hand over the South Caucasus region to the West?

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

2024/04/28

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A Caucasus affairs expert said: “If the trend of divergence among regional countries, especially Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Russia accelerates, Russians may show a more serious reaction and even prevent the traditional regional order change using force.”

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

2024/04/14

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: An expert on international affairs said: Although NATO, on its 75th birthday, has become more cohesive than three decades ago due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, this does not mean it will not face challenges in its future prospects.

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

2024/04/06

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: In recent months, we have seen Armenia and Azerbaijan strengthen new military-security arrangements. The two countries are developing military and security relations and exchanges with European and extra-regional countries within an “escalating process.” Strengthening the weapons arsenals, reviewing membership in some military pacts, and increasing military purchases are among these measures.
Barsam Mohammadi- Expert of regional issues

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

2024/03/30

Strategic Council Online: The tensions in the Red Sea have made the plan to transfer goods transportation route from the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to the “Middle Corridor” in the Caucasus the talk of the town.

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

2023/12/23

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A researcher of geopolitical affairs considered cooperation in the field of energy as the main priority of relations between Beijing and Baku and stated: The recent agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and China, while covering issues related to the import and export of oil and gas and development of new energies, also helps to advance China’s approach in resolving or reducing tensions in the Caucasus.

Analysis of French Role in Developments of the Caucasus Region

France, with a Cautious Approach, a Forerunner of the EU Policy towards Baku

2023/12/10

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert on European affairs stated that the institutional actions of the European Union against the Republic of Azerbaijan are followed cautiously, and saying that, on the one hand, the European Union does not want to act passively regarding the Caucasus issues, but on the other hand, Europe’s need for this country’s gas has caused it to take cautious steps regarding the sending of military equipment to Armenia, and in this regard, all the military equipment that was made in the agreement between France and Armenia has not been sent. Only defense systems, which are very cautious and more limited than the previous agreement, have been sent.

LATEST CONTENT

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

2026/08/03

Strategic Council Online – Note: Recent developments in the political geography of West Asia, from rising tensions in the Persian Gulf to missile and drone activities in the Red Sea and the recent warning by Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, regarding the threat to freedom of navigation, indicate a key pattern shift; the US-Iran war has moved beyond the scope of a regional and local confrontation and has linked two vital passageways for the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

2026/07/23

SCFR Online – Opinion: Foreign policy analysis is valid when it evaluates decisions based on the information and circumstances prevailing at the time they were made, not on the basis of outcomes that only become apparent after the crisis has ended.

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Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

2025/10/15

Online Strategic Council – Interview: An international affairs expert stated that Iran, by relying on its geo-economic capacities across various fields, should strive to solidify its position as a bridge connecting the Persian Gulf to Eurasia. However, regional and extra-regional competition for influence in Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached a critical point, where Iran’s security considerations and geopolitical red lines could turn the advancement of a multi-faceted strategy into a real test for the diplomatic apparatus.

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

2025/07/22

Strategic Council Online – Analysis: On the verge of finalizing the Baku-Yerevan peace agreement, the recent remarks by Mnatsakan Safaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, regarding the potential handover of the “logistical management” of the Zangezur route to a foreign company have pushed the status of this 32-kilometer strip into a critical phase. The discussion of a foreign operator’s involvement coincides with the meeting between Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi—a meeting that, according to regional media, primarily focused on this blocked route.

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

2024/05/04

Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on Caucasus affairs said: Following news reports that the Kremlin has implicitly confirmed that Russian peacekeepers are withdrawing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region and taking their weapons and equipment with them, this question is seriously raised: Does Russia want to hand over the South Caucasus region to the West?

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

2024/04/28

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A Caucasus affairs expert said: “If the trend of divergence among regional countries, especially Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Russia accelerates, Russians may show a more serious reaction and even prevent the traditional regional order change using force.”

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

2024/04/14

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: An expert on international affairs said: Although NATO, on its 75th birthday, has become more cohesive than three decades ago due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, this does not mean it will not face challenges in its future prospects.

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

2024/04/06

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: In recent months, we have seen Armenia and Azerbaijan strengthen new military-security arrangements. The two countries are developing military and security relations and exchanges with European and extra-regional countries within an “escalating process.” Strengthening the weapons arsenals, reviewing membership in some military pacts, and increasing military purchases are among these measures.
Barsam Mohammadi- Expert of regional issues

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

2024/03/30

Strategic Council Online: The tensions in the Red Sea have made the plan to transfer goods transportation route from the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to the “Middle Corridor” in the Caucasus the talk of the town.

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

2023/12/23

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A researcher of geopolitical affairs considered cooperation in the field of energy as the main priority of relations between Beijing and Baku and stated: The recent agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and China, while covering issues related to the import and export of oil and gas and development of new energies, also helps to advance China’s approach in resolving or reducing tensions in the Caucasus.

Analysis of French Role in Developments of the Caucasus Region

France, with a Cautious Approach, a Forerunner of the EU Policy towards Baku

2023/12/10

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert on European affairs stated that the institutional actions of the European Union against the Republic of Azerbaijan are followed cautiously, and saying that, on the one hand, the European Union does not want to act passively regarding the Caucasus issues, but on the other hand, Europe’s need for this country’s gas has caused it to take cautious steps regarding the sending of military equipment to Armenia, and in this regard, all the military equipment that was made in the agreement between France and Armenia has not been sent. Only defense systems, which are very cautious and more limited than the previous agreement, have been sent.

ÚLTIMAS PUBLICACIONES

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

2026/08/03

Strategic Council Online – Note: Recent developments in the political geography of West Asia, from rising tensions in the Persian Gulf to missile and drone activities in the Red Sea and the recent warning by Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, regarding the threat to freedom of navigation, indicate a key pattern shift; the US-Iran war has moved beyond the scope of a regional and local confrontation and has linked two vital passageways for the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

2026/07/23

SCFR Online – Opinion: Foreign policy analysis is valid when it evaluates decisions based on the information and circumstances prevailing at the time they were made, not on the basis of outcomes that only become apparent after the crisis has ended.

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Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

2025/10/15

Online Strategic Council – Interview: An international affairs expert stated that Iran, by relying on its geo-economic capacities across various fields, should strive to solidify its position as a bridge connecting the Persian Gulf to Eurasia. However, regional and extra-regional competition for influence in Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached a critical point, where Iran’s security considerations and geopolitical red lines could turn the advancement of a multi-faceted strategy into a real test for the diplomatic apparatus.

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

2025/07/22

Strategic Council Online – Analysis: On the verge of finalizing the Baku-Yerevan peace agreement, the recent remarks by Mnatsakan Safaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, regarding the potential handover of the “logistical management” of the Zangezur route to a foreign company have pushed the status of this 32-kilometer strip into a critical phase. The discussion of a foreign operator’s involvement coincides with the meeting between Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi—a meeting that, according to regional media, primarily focused on this blocked route.

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

2024/05/04

Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on Caucasus affairs said: Following news reports that the Kremlin has implicitly confirmed that Russian peacekeepers are withdrawing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region and taking their weapons and equipment with them, this question is seriously raised: Does Russia want to hand over the South Caucasus region to the West?

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

2024/04/28

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A Caucasus affairs expert said: “If the trend of divergence among regional countries, especially Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Russia accelerates, Russians may show a more serious reaction and even prevent the traditional regional order change using force.”

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

2024/04/14

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: An expert on international affairs said: Although NATO, on its 75th birthday, has become more cohesive than three decades ago due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, this does not mean it will not face challenges in its future prospects.

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

2024/04/06

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: In recent months, we have seen Armenia and Azerbaijan strengthen new military-security arrangements. The two countries are developing military and security relations and exchanges with European and extra-regional countries within an “escalating process.” Strengthening the weapons arsenals, reviewing membership in some military pacts, and increasing military purchases are among these measures.
Barsam Mohammadi- Expert of regional issues

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

2024/03/30

Strategic Council Online: The tensions in the Red Sea have made the plan to transfer goods transportation route from the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to the “Middle Corridor” in the Caucasus the talk of the town.

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

2023/12/23

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A researcher of geopolitical affairs considered cooperation in the field of energy as the main priority of relations between Beijing and Baku and stated: The recent agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and China, while covering issues related to the import and export of oil and gas and development of new energies, also helps to advance China’s approach in resolving or reducing tensions in the Caucasus.

Analysis of French Role in Developments of the Caucasus Region

France, with a Cautious Approach, a Forerunner of the EU Policy towards Baku

2023/12/10

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert on European affairs stated that the institutional actions of the European Union against the Republic of Azerbaijan are followed cautiously, and saying that, on the one hand, the European Union does not want to act passively regarding the Caucasus issues, but on the other hand, Europe’s need for this country’s gas has caused it to take cautious steps regarding the sending of military equipment to Armenia, and in this regard, all the military equipment that was made in the agreement between France and Armenia has not been sent. Only defense systems, which are very cautious and more limited than the previous agreement, have been sent.

ÚLTIMAS PUBLICACIONES

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

2026/08/03

Strategic Council Online – Note: Recent developments in the political geography of West Asia, from rising tensions in the Persian Gulf to missile and drone activities in the Red Sea and the recent warning by Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, regarding the threat to freedom of navigation, indicate a key pattern shift; the US-Iran war has moved beyond the scope of a regional and local confrontation and has linked two vital passageways for the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

2026/07/23

SCFR Online – Opinion: Foreign policy analysis is valid when it evaluates decisions based on the information and circumstances prevailing at the time they were made, not on the basis of outcomes that only become apparent after the crisis has ended.

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Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

2025/10/15

Online Strategic Council – Interview: An international affairs expert stated that Iran, by relying on its geo-economic capacities across various fields, should strive to solidify its position as a bridge connecting the Persian Gulf to Eurasia. However, regional and extra-regional competition for influence in Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached a critical point, where Iran’s security considerations and geopolitical red lines could turn the advancement of a multi-faceted strategy into a real test for the diplomatic apparatus.

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

2025/07/22

Strategic Council Online – Analysis: On the verge of finalizing the Baku-Yerevan peace agreement, the recent remarks by Mnatsakan Safaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, regarding the potential handover of the “logistical management” of the Zangezur route to a foreign company have pushed the status of this 32-kilometer strip into a critical phase. The discussion of a foreign operator’s involvement coincides with the meeting between Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi—a meeting that, according to regional media, primarily focused on this blocked route.

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

2024/05/04

Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on Caucasus affairs said: Following news reports that the Kremlin has implicitly confirmed that Russian peacekeepers are withdrawing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region and taking their weapons and equipment with them, this question is seriously raised: Does Russia want to hand over the South Caucasus region to the West?

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

2024/04/28

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A Caucasus affairs expert said: “If the trend of divergence among regional countries, especially Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Russia accelerates, Russians may show a more serious reaction and even prevent the traditional regional order change using force.”

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

2024/04/14

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: An expert on international affairs said: Although NATO, on its 75th birthday, has become more cohesive than three decades ago due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, this does not mean it will not face challenges in its future prospects.

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

2024/04/06

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: In recent months, we have seen Armenia and Azerbaijan strengthen new military-security arrangements. The two countries are developing military and security relations and exchanges with European and extra-regional countries within an “escalating process.” Strengthening the weapons arsenals, reviewing membership in some military pacts, and increasing military purchases are among these measures.
Barsam Mohammadi- Expert of regional issues

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

2024/03/30

Strategic Council Online: The tensions in the Red Sea have made the plan to transfer goods transportation route from the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to the “Middle Corridor” in the Caucasus the talk of the town.

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

2023/12/23

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A researcher of geopolitical affairs considered cooperation in the field of energy as the main priority of relations between Beijing and Baku and stated: The recent agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and China, while covering issues related to the import and export of oil and gas and development of new energies, also helps to advance China’s approach in resolving or reducing tensions in the Caucasus.

Analysis of French Role in Developments of the Caucasus Region

France, with a Cautious Approach, a Forerunner of the EU Policy towards Baku

2023/12/10

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert on European affairs stated that the institutional actions of the European Union against the Republic of Azerbaijan are followed cautiously, and saying that, on the one hand, the European Union does not want to act passively regarding the Caucasus issues, but on the other hand, Europe’s need for this country’s gas has caused it to take cautious steps regarding the sending of military equipment to Armenia, and in this regard, all the military equipment that was made in the agreement between France and Armenia has not been sent. Only defense systems, which are very cautious and more limited than the previous agreement, have been sent.

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Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

2026/08/03

Strategic Council Online – Note: Recent developments in the political geography of West Asia, from rising tensions in the Persian Gulf to missile and drone activities in the Red Sea and the recent warning by Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, regarding the threat to freedom of navigation, indicate a key pattern shift; the US-Iran war has moved beyond the scope of a regional and local confrontation and has linked two vital passageways for the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

2026/07/23

SCFR Online – Opinion: Foreign policy analysis is valid when it evaluates decisions based on the information and circumstances prevailing at the time they were made, not on the basis of outcomes that only become apparent after the crisis has ended.

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Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

An Analysis of Iran’s Strategy in Central Asia and the Caucasus

2025/10/15

Online Strategic Council – Interview: An international affairs expert stated that Iran, by relying on its geo-economic capacities across various fields, should strive to solidify its position as a bridge connecting the Persian Gulf to Eurasia. However, regional and extra-regional competition for influence in Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached a critical point, where Iran’s security considerations and geopolitical red lines could turn the advancement of a multi-faceted strategy into a real test for the diplomatic apparatus.

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

Zangezur: A Test for Regional and International Players

2025/07/22

Strategic Council Online – Analysis: On the verge of finalizing the Baku-Yerevan peace agreement, the recent remarks by Mnatsakan Safaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, regarding the potential handover of the “logistical management” of the Zangezur route to a foreign company have pushed the status of this 32-kilometer strip into a critical phase. The discussion of a foreign operator’s involvement coincides with the meeting between Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev in Abu Dhabi—a meeting that, according to regional media, primarily focused on this blocked route.

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

Withdrawal of Russian Forces from South Caucasus; Strategy or Tactic?

2024/05/04

Strategic Council Online – Interview: An expert on Caucasus affairs said: Following news reports that the Kremlin has implicitly confirmed that Russian peacekeepers are withdrawing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region and taking their weapons and equipment with them, this question is seriously raised: Does Russia want to hand over the South Caucasus region to the West?

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

The Outlook of Geopolitical Competition Among Major Powers in the Caucasus

2024/04/28

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A Caucasus affairs expert said: “If the trend of divergence among regional countries, especially Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Russia accelerates, Russians may show a more serious reaction and even prevent the traditional regional order change using force.”

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

Opportunities & Challenges of NATO on Its 75th Birthday

2024/04/14

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: An expert on international affairs said: Although NATO, on its 75th birthday, has become more cohesive than three decades ago due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, this does not mean it will not face challenges in its future prospects.

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

Consequences of the escalation of militarization in the South Caucasus

2024/04/06

Strategic Council Online—Opinion: In recent months, we have seen Armenia and Azerbaijan strengthen new military-security arrangements. The two countries are developing military and security relations and exchanges with European and extra-regional countries within an “escalating process.” Strengthening the weapons arsenals, reviewing membership in some military pacts, and increasing military purchases are among these measures.
Barsam Mohammadi- Expert of regional issues

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

Can the Middle Corridor Replace the Red Sea Route?

2024/03/30

Strategic Council Online: The tensions in the Red Sea have made the plan to transfer goods transportation route from the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to the “Middle Corridor” in the Caucasus the talk of the town.

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

Objectives & Consequences of China’s Energy Agreement with the Republic of Azerbaijan

2023/12/23

Strategic Council Online – Interview: A researcher of geopolitical affairs considered cooperation in the field of energy as the main priority of relations between Beijing and Baku and stated: The recent agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and China, while covering issues related to the import and export of oil and gas and development of new energies, also helps to advance China’s approach in resolving or reducing tensions in the Caucasus.

Analysis of French Role in Developments of the Caucasus Region

France, with a Cautious Approach, a Forerunner of the EU Policy towards Baku

2023/12/10

Strategic Council Online—Interview: An expert on European affairs stated that the institutional actions of the European Union against the Republic of Azerbaijan are followed cautiously, and saying that, on the one hand, the European Union does not want to act passively regarding the Caucasus issues, but on the other hand, Europe’s need for this country’s gas has caused it to take cautious steps regarding the sending of military equipment to Armenia, and in this regard, all the military equipment that was made in the agreement between France and Armenia has not been sent. Only defense systems, which are very cautious and more limited than the previous agreement, have been sent.

ÚLTIMAS PUBLICACIONES

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

Balancing in the chain of chokepoints; from sea-based deterrence to pluralistic diplomacy

2026/08/03

Strategic Council Online – Note: Recent developments in the political geography of West Asia, from rising tensions in the Persian Gulf to missile and drone activities in the Red Sea and the recent warning by Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, regarding the threat to freedom of navigation, indicate a key pattern shift; the US-Iran war has moved beyond the scope of a regional and local confrontation and has linked two vital passageways for the global economy: the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

Indicators for Choosing Between War and Diplomacy

2026/07/23

SCFR Online – Opinion: Foreign policy analysis is valid when it evaluates decisions based on the information and circumstances prevailing at the time they were made, not on the basis of outcomes that only become apparent after the crisis has ended.

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