Iran Between Survival And Structural Change

AZE.US Iran is entering what may become the most consequential phase of its modern political history. The current escalation is not simply about military strikes or nuclear facilities. It is about the long-term viability of the Islamic Republic’s governing model. According to REAL party chairman Natig Jafarli, the country resembles the Soviet Union in 1986 … Read more

In Baku, Garages Are Selling for the Price of an Apartment

AZE.US In parts of Baku, a parking space now costs as much as a small apartment. Garage units in central residential complexes are being sold for 50,000-60,000 manats (approximately $29,000–$35,000), with some listings reaching 100,000 manats (around $59,000). The highest prices are concentrated in downtown districts. According to real estate expert Nofel Guliyev, the garages … Read more

War Around Iran: Balance of Power Over Principles

AZE.US The latest escalation involving Iran has reignited a familiar debate in international politics: is the world governed by principles – or by power? The U.S.-Israel military strikes against Iranian targets have been framed as deterrence and self-defense. But the broader implications go far beyond immediate security concerns. The unfolding crisis is testing the credibility … Read more

Armenia Between Moscow And The West: A Choice That Could Reshape The South Caucasus

AZE.US Armenia is entering a politically sensitive period in which its strategic direction may carry consequences beyond its domestic landscape. The country’s evolving relationship with Russia and its expanding engagement with Western partners are increasingly shaping the geopolitical balance of the South Caucasus. At stake is not only electoral politics, but the long-term orientation of … Read more

Two Paths To Retirement: Accumulated Capital Or 25 Years Of Service?

AZE.US Azerbaijan’s pension system operates under a defined contribution model, where eligibility for retirement benefits depends either on accumulated pension capital or a minimum insurance record. Under current legislation, individuals reaching retirement age qualify for a labor pension if their personal pension account contains an amount equal to at least 144 times the minimum pension. … Read more

Middle East Escalates After Khamenei Killed In U.S.-Israel Strikes

AZE.US Iran has officially confirmed the death of its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei following large-scale military strikes carried out by Israel and the United States on February 28. Iranian state media, including Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) and Tasnim News Agency, reported that Khamenei was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli strike targeting locations in Iran … Read more

Azerbaijani Analyst Says Post-Conflict Integration in South Caucasus Would Undermine Russian Leverage

AZE.US Azerbaijani military journalist and political analyst Heydar Mirza said that any post-conflict integration between South Caucasus states outside Moscow’s mediation framework would significantly weaken Russia’s influence in the region. Speaking on the YouTube channel FREEДОМ. KAVKAZ, Mirza argued that Russia’s regional strategy has historically relied on a centralized model in which bilateral processes between … Read more

Commercial Iftar Menus Spark Debate During Ramadan In Azerbaijan

AZE.US As Ramadan begins, restaurants across Azerbaijan have launched special “iftar menus,” offering evening meal packages for those breaking their fast. While such offerings have become common in recent years, pricing and commercialization have sparked renewed public debate. In several cities, menu prices for iftar packages range from 30 to 80 manats per person – … Read more

Elections In Armenia Could Shape The Region’s Future – Jafarli Says

AZE.US Azerbaijani economist Natig Jafarli has commented on the upcoming parliamentary elections in Armenia, scheduled for June 7, describing them as potentially significant for the broader regional outlook. In a post published on social media, Jafarli expressed hope that what he referred to as the “peace party” would prevail in the vote, arguing that Armenia’s … Read more

Private Kindergartens Expand Beyond Baku – But Are They Affordable In The Regions?

AZE.US Demand for private kindergartens is no longer limited to Baku. In recent years, several regional cities across Azerbaijan have seen a gradual increase in private preschool facilities, largely driven by limited capacity in state-run institutions. While prices remain below capital-level rates, affordability remains a key concern for families outside Baku. Price Range: 150-250 Manats … Read more