Kazakhstan, Astana, Feb. 27 / Trend D. Mukhtarov /
In the case of a military solution of the Iranian problem, the South Caucasus and Central Asia would inevitably be drawn into the conflict, director of the Caspian Cooperation Institute Sergey Mikheev believes.
"Due to the fact that military action would be large scale, the Western coalition will seek allies in these regions neighbouring with Iran and actively involve post-Soviet countries in the conflict. If they agree, they will automatically become a target for Iran's attacks," Mikheev said.
Furthermore in his view, all economic projects in the Caspian region, including in the oil and gas sector may be suspended. Tensions surrounding Iran make these projects less appealing and increase their costs. It would mean the economic development of the Caspian region could be suspended for many years in the case of military action against the country.
"The consequences of the war against Iran would be unpredictable, not only for the region but the world at large. It is enough to cite the example of Afghanistan and the military operation in Iraq. The current developments in this country definitely cannot be called a peace.Syria is another example. All Western efforts to restore a geopolitical order in the form complying with its wishes eventually become a problem for those people and countries where this all takes place. We are guinea pigs for a large experimental laboratory. Therefore, prevention of war in Iran due to its nuclear programme is our common goal, "he concluded.