The Second Treaty of Erzurum settles the Ottoman–Persian border

Background. Tensions between the Ottoman Empire and Qajar Persia had risen due to border incidents in the 1830s, including issues with rebellious tribesmen from the Iranian Azerbaijan Province. European powers Britain and Russia offered to mediate, leading to the negotiation and drafting of the treaty. The goal was to establish an end to hostility and settle boundary disputes.

Treaty Terms. The treaty was the first serious attempt to divide the disputed region between the two parties. It provided for a boundary commission composed of Ottoman, Persian, Russian, and British representatives to delimit the entire border. Additionally, it addressed the long-standing competing claims over Abadan Island, which was ceded to Iran by Turkey in 1847.

Diplomatic Context. The treaty was signed on 31 May 1847, with European powers Britain and Russia directly involved in its negotiation and drafting. This marked a shift in the way the Ottomans viewed Persia, moving away from sectarian invectives present in earlier treaties. The treaty also facilitated the evolution of Iranians into a community with extraterritorial rights.