Iran Torn Over Nagorno-Karabakh Amidst COVID Crisis
There are two main stories in Iranian news this week. First, their potential involvement in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Second, the impact of COVID-19 on Iran.
Iran’s population has significant ethnic Azeri and Armenian populations. The difficulty of their position within the conflict is increased as it shares borders with both countries. This morning President Rouhani expressed concern that this could become a regional conflict. Iran has in past decades attempted to mediate and resolve the conflict and they support an immediate ceasefire. President Rouahni clarified the Iranian position last week saying that Iran supports UN resolutions which state Nagorno-Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan. Rouhani also spoke with the Armenian Prime Minister but denied rumours that Iran is secretly supporting Armenia after videos surfaced of Iranian military equipment being transferred at their border.
Iran implemented stricter restrictions and penalties in and around Tehran this week. So far the death toll in Iran is 27,419 and the total number of infections is 479,285. Penalties will be implemented for those who feel symptoms and do not isolate, those engaging in high-risk activities and government or private sector businesses who do not follow guidelines. Crossing into Iraq for religious pilgrimages is now illegal.
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