Iran and Armenia have much in common: both isolated and both trying to become regional players

PanARMENIAN.Net - Relations between the United States and Iran should be viewed in diplomatic, military and economic aspects, an expert said.



"After the 9/11 the American-Iranian relations entered a new stage. The United States launched a campaign against Taliban, what served Iran's purpose. However, the war on terror included Iran in the "axis of evil." U.S. incorrect government of post war Iraq helps Iran to grow as a regional power. As to Iran's nuclear program, it is an issue of national dignity and response to nuclear threat from Israel and, possibly, Pakistan and India," Richard Giragosian, a contributing analyst at Jane's Information Group, said in Yerevan during "Iran as regional power: problems and perspectives" conference.



Iran and Armenia have much in common, according to him. "Both countries are isolated and both are trying to become regional players," he said.



Touching on a possible U.S. attack on Iran, the expert said, "It will be inefficient and counterproductive. The American army struggles to cope with Iraq and Afghanistan and its technical capabilities are limited. There is one more important factor, in case of aggression, both government and opposition supporters in Iran will unite to defend their homeland."



"The U.S. position is to stop Iran's influence over Iraq, specifically delivery of weapons to Shiites. At the same time, the Iranian factor is a serious challenge for the U.S.-Russia relations. Washington is a approaching a conclusion that it's better to talks with Iran rather than resort to threats. I am hopeful that with coming to power, Barack Obama will succeed in shifting the U.S. policy toward Iran," Mr Giragosian said.