The Role of the United States of America in the Securitization of Iran-Azerbaijan Relations

Hedayati Shahidani, Mehdi; Mehdipour, Amir Hossein; Jalaee, Mohammad

doi:10.22034/csiw.2026.736815

The Role of the United States of America in the Securitization of Iran-Azerbaijan Relations

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Mehdi Hedayati Shahidani ¹

Amir Hossein Mehdipour ²

Mohammad Jalaee ³

¹ Academic Staff, Department of Political Sciences, University of Guilan

² PhD Candidate, International relations, University of Guilan.

³ Academic Staff, Department of Political Science, University of Guilan

10.22034/csiw.2026.736815

Abstract

Amid ongoing conflicts in the Caucasus, extra-regional powers, particularly the United States, have sought to expand their influence over the region’s strategic dynamics. In this context, the United States has increased its engagement with the Republic of Azerbaijan in an effort to reshape the regional balance of power vis-à-vis Iran and Russia. Accordingly, this article examines the impact of U.S. foreign policy on relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Caucasus region. Drawing on the theoretical framework of the Copenhagen School, the study tests the hypothesis that the United States has contributed to the securitization of Iran–Azerbaijan relations through military assistance and arms cooperation, investment in and influence over energy transit routes, and support for separatist and pan-Turkist movements. The findings indicate that U.S. policy in the South Caucasus, particularly toward the Republic of Azerbaijan, seeks to strengthen its ties with NATO and counter Iran’s regional influence through a strategy of soft empowerment.

Keywords

United States of America

Securitization

Islamic Republic of Iran

Republic of Azerbaijan

Soft Empowerment