The fact that Iran has become closer to Armenia and shows itself as a friendly country to Armenia after Azerbaijan liberated its lands has raised certain questions connected with our southern neighbors. Does the country calling itself Muslim really consider the occupier and oppressor, Khojaly executioners a friend? Or some factors in Iran are above Islam and other moral values?

Initially, let us say that since the Azerbaijani lands were occupied, Iran has been closely cooperating with Armenia; Iran has even been involved in illegal activities in the Azerbaijani territories. Iran, which calls Armenia a friend and considers itself the center of Islam, was either unaware of the fact that the Armenians kept pigs in the mosques located in the Azerbaijani lands, that the entire Muslim community was insulted or is it acceptable in Islam? Is it acceptable in Islam? 

The Iranian side is trying to demonstrate itself to Armenia as a protector. However, the Armenian side should also pay attention to the international reputation of Iran. They should pay special attention to how many states Iran has normal relations with. 

On the other hand, the fact that Iran is now conducting military exercises at the border with Azerbaijan is not perceived unequivocally. 

"First of all, I should say that every country can conduct any military exercises in its territories. Undoubtedly, this is their sovereign right. However, at the same time, when we analyze it, we see that it has never happened. Why now? Why now on our border? Not me, but the Azerbaijani society is asking this question? The world Azerbaijanis are asking these questions. Another question asked is why were no exercises held in that region during the occupation? Why were no exercises held when the Armenians were in Jabrayil, Zangilan, Fuzuli? Why are exercises held after we have liberated the lands and put an end to the 30-year occupation and oppression? These are legitimate questions," Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said.

It is relevant to draw attention to a number of issues now. For instance, the signing of the agreement between the Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders with the mediation of Iran coincided with the occupation of Shusha. The stance of Tehran regarding Iran's mediation in the occupation of Shusha is that international forces did not want its mediation, and they created conditions for Shusha's occupation in order to damage its reputation: "There are several issues here. Firstly, Azerbaijan lost Shusha; secondly, Azerbaijan lost Shusha relying on Iran's mediation. In other words, Azerbaijan has suffered from Iran's mediation. Thirdly, Tehran should have considered the effect of its steps before taking them." 

Strengthening the friendly relations with Azerbaijan, that has turned into one of the key participants of the world processes and has an international reputation, will be in favor of Iran. If Iran wants to take a side, it would take the side of justice as a true Muslim. In turn, Azerbaijan always complies with international law and restores justice itself. 

Vusal Garaja, Niftulla Mammadli