AZERBAIJAN CAN MAKE USE OF WAR OF U.S. AGAINST IRAN AND ATTACK NKR, PROFESSOR RUBEN SAFRASTIAN STATES

Noyan Tapan
Apr 05 2007

YEREVAN, APRIL 5, NOYAN TAPAN. No war will start in Iran in the
nearest time, as all diplomatic abilities have not been exhausted
yet. Professor Ruben Safrastian, Director of Institute of Oriental
Studies of RA National Academy of Sciences, gave assurance at the
April 5 press conference. In his words, Iran’s isolation did not
reach the extent when U.S. could use military force.

R. Safrastian mentioned that Iran has diplomatic practice of many
years, which can play an "excellent role" in neutralization of
American diplomatic efforts. In the scientist’s words, in all cases
we can expect final developments of this process only in late May.

As regards possible influence on the South Caucasus of military blow
of U.S. upon Iran, R. Safrastian mentioned that Iran is an important
factor of stability in the region. However, if the latter concentrates
only on solution of its own problems, to which U.S. force it, no doubt,
this will have a negative consequence on the region. "Iran’s not giving
up its positions proceeds from national interests of Armenia, as Iran
is a serious counterbalance to influence of Turkey and Azerbaijan in
the region."

R. Safrastian did not exclude that if the American-Iranian
contradictions reach their culminating point, Azerbaijan can make
use of the chaotic situation formed in the region and organize armed
attack on Nagorno Karabakh. So, the Armenian side should be ready
for such development of events as well.