Iran is monitoring the growing ties between Israel and Azerbaijan, expressing concern over a strategic partnership that may undermine its regional influence. An article in Iran Daily draws attention to the potential expansion of Israel’s presence and the implications of US involvement, particularly regarding Azerbaijan’s role in Gaza’s reconstruction and potential military ties. Iranian officials are considering strengthening alliances, especially with Armenia, in response to these challenges.
Iran is diligently observing the increasing relationship between Israel and Azerbaijan, expressing apprehension regarding a deepening strategic partnership. The Iranian state newspaper, Iran Daily, published an article entitled “Israel’s Growing Footprint in Azerbaijan Raises Red Alert,” calling for heightened vigilance from Iranian security and governmental agencies concerning developments in the Caucasus region.
The piece delineates Iran’s major concern: the evolving strategic alliance linking Israel, the United States, and Azerbaijan, which could bolster Israel’s influence in the area and diminish Iran’s regional power. The article references findings from the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA), presented to the Trump administration, profiling Azerbaijan as a crucial component of Israel’s regional security architecture, highlighting three decades of collaboration in intelligence and energy.
Furthermore, the BESA report intimates that the United States may encourage Azerbaijan’s involvement in Gaza’s reconstruction efforts, primarily through energy support, contingent upon participation from other Muslim nations. Iran views this initiative as an effort to enhance the Abraham Accords, potentially undermining its sway in the Arab realm.
Tehran is also apprehensive that the United States may contemplate lifting sanctions on Azerbaijan under Section 907, originally instituted in 1992 due to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which could facilitate greater military support for Baku and closer ties with Israel and the US. The article advocates for Iranian officials engaged in national security and foreign policy to consider the BESA recommendations, emphasizing its origin from a notable security think tank.
To mitigate perceived threats from the burgeoning regional alliance, Iranian officials are contemplating a strategy that reinforces ties with Armenia. This step aims to act as a counterbalance to the expanding influence of Israel and the United States in the Caucasus region.
In summary, Iran is expressing significant concern regarding the strengthening relationship between Israel and Azerbaijan, as well as the potential involvement of the United States in this dynamic. The implications for regional security and influence are profound, urging Iranian officials to respond strategically, particularly by bolstering alliances that may counterbalance this emerging coalition.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
