Iran formed a new naval base at the Gulf's entrance, south of the Strait of Hormuz. Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayari told Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran that the base was built in Jask. He reminded that the Strait of Hormuz is used for transport of about 40% of world oil. It separates Iran and the Arabian Peninsula.
Fikret Sadykhov, a political analyst and Professor of the Western University of Baku, told Vestnik Kavkaza that Azerbaijan is against any attacks on Iran and wants peace in the region. He reminded that Iran is under an embargo, its foreign accounts have been frozen.
The Iranian nuclear program may be a reason, but Tehran has done its best to cause tensions with the rest of the world, the expert says. Iran wants Azerbaijan to be against Israel and the West. Sadykhov believes that Azerbaijan should not get involved in any coalitions.
Ali Gasanov, head of the socio-political section of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, shares the view. He emphasized that Azerbaijan will not be used against Iran and will not take sides. The official noted that some forces want tensions between Azerbaijan and Iran.
Iran and six mediators will meet on APril 14 to discuss the nuclear program. The Supreme Council of Iranian National Security confirmed the information. Views will be exchanged on the nuclear program. Russia initiated the meeting to end Iran's isolation.
