Iran Acknowledges Worries Over Strengthening Israel-Azerbaijan Relations
Iran has raised alarms regarding the deepening ties between Israel and Azerbaijan, viewing it as a growing strategic alliance facilitated by the US. Concerns include Azerbaijan’s potential role in Gaza’s reconstruction and the lifting of sanctions, which may bolster military support for Baku and enhance Israeli presence in the region. Iranian officials are encouraged to strengthen alliances with Armenia to counter these developments.
Iran is closely observing the strengthening relations between Israel and Azerbaijan, expressing significant apprehension regarding what it perceives as an expanding strategic partnership. The official Iranian newspaper, Iran Daily, addressed this issue prominently in an article titled “Israel’s Growing Footprint in Azerbaijan Raises Red Alert,” calling for heightened vigilance among Iranian security and government agencies concerning developments in the Caucasus region.
The primary concern articulated by Tehran is the deepening strategic alignment of Israel, the United States, and Azerbaijan, which could enhance Israel’s presence in the Caucasus and diminish Iran’s influence in the area. Reports from the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA), referenced in the article, underscore Azerbaijan’s role as a critical pillar in Israel’s regional security, highlighting the extensive intelligence and energy cooperation that has developed over the past three decades.
Furthermore, the BESA report posits that the United States may approach Azerbaijan with opportunities to assist in Gaza’s reconstruction by providing necessary energy resources, contingent upon collaboration with other Muslim countries. Tehran views this development as a strategy to promote the Abraham Accords and reduce Iran’s sway within the Arab world.
Concerns are also raised regarding the potential lifting of sanctions on Azerbaijan under Section 907, which was instituted in 1992 due to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Iran fears that such a move could result in increased military assistance to Baku and bolster security ties with Israel and the US, thus heightening regional tensions.
Iran Daily insists that Iranian officials engaged in national security and foreign policy should thoroughly analyze BESA’s recommendations and act accordingly, highlighting the center’s reputation as a prestigious security think tank. Furthermore, the article advocates for strengthening alliances with Armenia to counterbalance the growing influence of Israel and the US within the Caucasus region. Iranian officials have indicated intentions to address the perceived formation of this regional alliance through various strategic avenues, including diplomatic, military, and economic approaches.
In summary, Iran’s alarm over the strengthening ties between Israel and Azerbaijan reflects its concerns about diminishing influence in the Caucasus. The relationship with the US and potential new roles for Azerbaijan pose risks to Iran’s regional security, prompting calls for strategic alliances and closer monitoring of developments. Iranian authorities are urged to respond through multifaceted approaches combining diplomacy and military strategy.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
