The Geopolitics of the Zangezur Corridor and Iran's National Security: Modeling the Interactions of Rival Coalitions with the Game Theory Framework

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Assistant Professor and faculty member of the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Faculty of Social Sciences, Razi University.

2 PhD student in Political Sociology, Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah

10.22124/wp.2025.29871.3481

Abstract

In this research, an attempt has been made to answer the question of what the consequences of the alignment and joint efforts of Israel, Azerbaijan, and Turkey in the Zangezur corridor from 2020 to 2024 are for the Islamic Republic of Iran. In this context, qualitative methods and the theoretical framework of game theory have been utilized. The results of the research indicate that competition in the Caucasus region over the establishment of the Zangezur corridor could lead to increased rivalry and tensions in this area. Additionally, the coordinated efforts of the three mentioned countries in the Zangezur corridor reflect a broader strategy aimed at reducing Iran's influence in the South Caucasus and pose a threat to Iran's security. Consequently, Iran must seek alliances with countries like Russia and Armenia to safeguard its interests and position; as a result, this competition and game could yield different outcomes for each of the actors and may even lead to a win-lose situation for them in achieving their interests.

Keywords