Aliyev Issues Warning to Iran / “We Must Be Ready for War”

According to Rokna, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, while stressing that his country must be prepared for war at any moment, underlined the importance of national security. He stated that security depends on the government, the people, and the armed forces.

Development of Azerbaijan’s Defensive Capabilities

According to Rokna, citing Fars News Agency, Aliyev, during his visit to the Kalbajar region, noted that the Azerbaijani armed forces are currently safeguarding the country’s interests and security under strict supervision and are monitoring potential sources of threat. He further elaborated on the strengthening of military capabilities following the Second Karabakh War in 2020, pointing to the increase in the number of special forces, the establishment of commando units, and the addition of advanced military equipment such as modern drones, artillery systems, and upgraded aircraft.

Aliyev emphasized that contracts for the purchase of new fighter jets have also been signed and stressed: “We must always be ready for war, because global changes are unpredictable. Any provocation against Baku will backfire on them, and Azerbaijan will remain a victorious country.”

Focus on Developing Transport Infrastructure

The President of Azerbaijan also discussed regional connectivity projects, announcing that one of the transport corridors passes through Armenian territory, linking Azerbaijan to the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. He stated: “Our position has always been effective in the negotiations for drafting a peace treaty with Armenia, and we hope that in the near future we will be able to travel from mainland Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan by train and car.”

Aliyev described this transport route not merely as a domestic connection but as an international corridor. According to him, the construction of the railway to Zangilan is progressing successfully and is likely to be completed next year. He added that Armenia has also committed to implementing this project and described it as a historic achievement for Azerbaijan.

New Agreement with U.S. Involvement

Azerbaijan and Armenia recently signed a memorandum of understanding at a ceremony in the White House to establish an international corridor in the Zangru region. This agreement was signed in the presence of Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia, Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, and Donald Trump, former President of the United States. Based on the agreement, a transit route connecting mainland Azerbaijan, the Nakhchivan region, Turkey, and Europe — known as the “Trump Route” — will be created.