Israel-Iran war could negatively affect Baku’s willingness to reach peace with Yerevan, warns Swedish MP
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According to Swedish Member of Parliament Erik Hellsborn, the recent 12-day war between Israel and Iran might negatively affect Azerbaijan’s readiness to sign a peace agreement with Armenia.
Hellsborn expressed this opinion in an interview with Armenpress, addressing the prospects for finalizing negotiations on a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan and its potential early signing.
The MP also commented on the unprecedented development of relations between Armenia and the European Union and the prospects for their further expansion.
Speaking about the agreement reached between Yerevan and Baku back in March, Hellsborn said the recent military escalation between Israel and Iran could reduce Azerbaijan’s willingness to finalize the deal in the near future.
He also warned that the weakening of Iran’s military capabilities as a result of the conflict with Israel could present an opportunity for Baku to occupy new territories from Armenia.
“I wish Armenia's democratically elected government the best in their struggle to accomplish a stable, long lasting peace. But I fear that recent war between Israel and Iran might have a negative impact on Azerbaijan's willingness to reach an agreement. But there is a risk that a weakened Iran will be less of a deterrent for Baku, and might embolden them to seek control over more Armenian territory,’’ Hellsborn said.
The Swedish MP also positively assessed the recent strengthening of Armenia–EU relations and the June 29–30 visit to Armenia by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. He emphasized the importance of continued efforts to build strong economic and cultural ties between Yerevan and Brussels, which would benefit both sides.
“This is all a very positive development. We should continue to build economic and cultural ties between us. A future were both Europe and Armenia views Armenia as part of a greater western civilization is something that will be beneficial for both parties,” Hellsborn said.
On June 30, 2025, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan met with EU High Representative Kaja Kallas in Yerevan. The visit marked a significant milestone in Armenia–EU relations, with both sides announcing the conclusion of negotiations on an ambitious new Partnership Agenda.
As part of the visit, High Representative Kallas also met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.