Geopolitics in the South Caucasus: The dynamics of regional rivalry between Turkey and Iran after the Second Karabakh War

After the Second Karabakh War, the rivalry between Turkey and Iran for influence and positions in the South Caucasus has intensified. While there is a number of works focusing on Turkish-Iranian relations in the South Caucasus, the dynamics of their confrontational interaction in the region in the post-conflict period have not yet been examined. The relevance of the study is conditioned by the increased role of both Turkey and Iran in the contemporary geopolitics of the South Caucasus and their influence on the complex political and economic processes in the region. In the article, the author traces the strategy of both countries in the South Caucasus and highlights the negative impact of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict on the regional interests of the two countries. The study draws on historical data and a comparative study of the political and economic strategies of both Turkey and Iran in the South Caucasus, based on official documents, speeches of government officials, and international reactions to the actions of both countries in the region. Based on the data presented, the author concludes that there is a growing rivalry between Turkey and Iran in the South Caucasus. Based on their rich historical ties to the region, these countries are making efforts to realise their geopolitical interests. The conflict of interests between Turkey, which seeks to strengthen its influence in the South Caucasus by supporting Azerbaijan, and Iran, which strives to maintain its sphere of regional influence by further developing strategic partnership relations with Armenia, may increase tension and confrontation in the region.