Interviews Houman A. Sadri, associate professor at the Department of Political Science, University of Central Florida.
Q: As an Iranian and someone familiar with the situation in our region, what do you think of the prospects for a settlement to the Karabakh conflict?
A: As a professor of diplomacy, I am optimistic about a possible settlement in the long-term, which will probably not be completely satisfactory for any of the sides or in terms of justice. But considering the great number of people who suffer as a result of this problem, it is important to find a solution at least with a minimal level of justice. This is very important.
Q: Is this realistic in the near future?
A: Unfortunately, I do not think we will see it in the near future. But if we look at more intensive conflicts, we will see opportunities opening up in the long-term. The best example is the Middle East conflict where the parties have maintained a more open dialogue.
Frankly speaking, I do not think the Karabakh conflict is as complex as the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
Going back to the question, I want to say that you can consider me an optimist, but I want to believe that a solution will be found in the long-term. The problem is that Azerbaijan and Armenia should understand how much they need each other. I think this understanding will come later.
Q: The Iranian president has repeatedly stated his country's readiness to mediate on the Karabakh conflict.
A: Yes, this proposal was made some time ago, but both parties criticized it.
Q: That's not quite true as Baku accepted the proposal, while Yerevan rejected it.
A: Right
Q: Do you think Iran could help find a solution?
A: I think that Iran, as it is culturally and historically close to Azerbaijan and has new strategic ties with Armenia, could play the role of a mediator. I think this is proven by both sides' criticism of Iran (laughs). If the criticism was made by only one side, we could speak of bias rather than objective mediation. I am sure that Iran is really interested in the soonest resolution of this conflict. Iran wants to be closer to Azerbaijan and Armenia, Iranians really want to minimize any risks in relations with Azerbaijan. Unfortunately, here we have to speak of the image of a supporter of terrorism, which has been incorrectly imposed on Iran. I must say that there is a great difference between Iran’s actions in the Caucasus and in Iraq, or, for example, in the Middle East, where Hamas and Hezbollah are functioning. The difference is really significant, but it's important how both sides, Baku and Yerevan, would accept an Iranian mediating mission.
U.U.
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