Examining the Geopolitical and Geostrategic Implications of a Bilateral Defense Pact between Iran and Armenia in the South Caucasus

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Command and Staff University

Abstract

South Caucasus, as one of the geopolitically sensitive regions, has always been the arena of competition among regional and transregional powers. In this context, Iran and Armenia, as two neighboring countries, share common interests in geopolitical and security domains. The present study aims to examine the geopolitical and geostrategic impacts of establishing a bilateral defense pact between Iran and Armenia. This research employs a descriptive method with a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach. In the qualitative phase, data were collected through the review of credible documents and interviews with experts familiar with the subject. The analysis of these data was conducted using ATLAS.ti software and thematic analysis. At this stage, indicators were extracted in two dimensions—geopolitical and geostrategic—and those with a CVI value greater than 0.79 were confirmed. In the quantitative phase, the validated indicators were ranked using SPSS software and the Friedman test. Finally, the priority of required characteristics for determining the importance of indicators and analyzing relationships between variables was calculated. The findings indicate that this pact can strengthen Armenia's territorial security against neighboring threats and consolidate Iran's geopolitical position in the Caucasus. In the geopolitical dimension, this alliance enhances the balance of power against Turkey and Azerbaijan and strengthens Iran’s role in regional organizations. In the geostrategic dimension, this defensive cooperation increases regional deterrence and prevents the influence of transregional actors such as NATO. The results confirm that establishing this pact can enhance strategic interactions between the two countries, curb rivals’ influence, and promote regional stability. Ultimately, it is recommended that policymakers in both countries focus on developing defense, diplomatic, and economic cooperation to transform this pact into an effective factor in regional security and geopolitical balance.

Keywords