Iran Alarmed by Growing Israel-Azerbaijan Relations and Potential US Involvement

Iran is alarmed by the strengthening ties between Israel and Azerbaijan, which it views as a strategic threat. The Iranian government is concerned about the implications of US involvement in this partnership, particularly regarding potential military aid to Azerbaijan and participation in Gaza’s reconstruction efforts. Iran advocates for closer ties with Armenia to counteract this emerging alliance.

Iran is expressing significant concern regarding the strengthening relations between Israel and Azerbaijan, viewing it as a burgeoning strategic alliance. An article in Iran Daily, an official publication of the Iranian presidential administration, titled “Israel’s Growing Footprint in Azerbaijan Raises Red Alert,” has called for vigilant monitoring of developments in the Caucasus region by Iranian authorities.

The report underscores Tehran’s apprehensions concerning the deepening collaboration between Israel, the United States, and Azerbaijan, which may enhance Israel’s foothold in the Caucasus and diminish Iran’s influence. The article references analyses from the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA), highlighting that Azerbaijan is regarded as a critical element of Israel’s regional security, stemming from decades of cooperation in intelligence and energy sectors.

Furthermore, the BESA report suggests that the US could encourage Azerbaijan to partake in the reconstruction of Gaza, particularly concerning energy resource contributions, contingent upon the involvement of other Muslim nations. İran perceives this as an attempt to reinforce the Abraham Accords and weaken its role in the Arab world.

Iran is also apprehensive about potential easing of US sanctions on Azerbaijan under Section 907, which could lead to increased military support for Baku and tighter security collaborations with Israel and the US. The article implores Iranian officials engaged in national security and foreign policy to consider the recommendations from BESA, deemed as emanating from a reputable security think tank.

In response, the publication advocates for Iran to bolster its alliance with Armenia as a countermeasure against the growing influence of Israel and the United States in the region. Iranian officials have indicated their intentions to counterbalance this emerging regional alliance through various diplomatic, military, and economic strategies.

In summary, Iran remains vigilant against Israel and Azerbaijan’s strengthening relationship, primarily due to fears of diminishing its regional influence alongside the potential military aid from the US to Azerbaijan. The Iranian authorities are urged to reinvigorate their alliances in the region, particularly with Armenia, to safeguard their interests amid these developments.

Original Source: www.jpost.com