In this episode of the CAPS Unlock podcast, we speak with Eldaniz Gusseinov, head of research at Nightingale Int., about what the war between the United States, Israel and Iran could mean for Central Asia.

Rather than dwelling on battlefield events, the conversation looks at the wider regional consequences of the conflict, particularly for trade routes, strategic connectivity and Central Asia’s ability to balance between larger powers. Gusseinov argues that the immediate effect on the region is less direct than many assume. The more important question lies in the ripple effects: how the war reshapes relations among Iran, Russia, China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, and how those shifts then feed back into Central Asia.

He outlines three broad trends to watch. First, if the Iranian regime survives, Tehran may move closer to Moscow, giving Russia a stronger role in the corridors that run south through Iran and Afghanistan. Second, China may place greater weight on Central Asia as a stable neighbour and as a hedge against vulnerable maritime choke points and instability across the wider Asian space. Third, Afghanistan, squeezed by conflict with Pakistan and by disruptions to its access through Iran, may seek deeper integration with Central Asia and Russia via northern routes.

The discussion also examines whether prolonged instability in Iran would damage Central Asia’s hopes of reaching the Indian Ocean, and whether alternatives such as Afghanistan, Pakistan or even a narrower focus on Afghanistan as a market might become more realistic. Gusseinov is sceptical of easy answers, arguing that geography still bites, infrastructure remains weak, and sanctions continue to impose a structural constraint.

At the broadest level, the episode asks whether this war could narrow the space for Central Asia’s multi-vector diplomacy. Gusseinov’s answer is cautious. In the short term, yes, but over time, the region may still find new routes, new bargains and new ways to adapt.

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