Iranian and Azerbaijani Forces Conduct Joint Military Drill Amid Regional Tensions
Military Collaboration Amid Strained Relations
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Azerbaijani Army commenced a joint military exercise, “Araz 2025,” on Sunday, which is set to continue through Wednesday. Despite ongoing tensions between Iran and Azerbaijan, rooted in various geopolitical complexities-including strong defense ties between Azerbaijan and Israel-both nations are engaging in military training exercises aimed at enhancing border security and addressing potential threats.
Key Insights from Military Exercises
The joint drills are taking place in the Karabakh region, an area that has witnessed frequent conflicts, especially following Azerbaijan’s control of the territory in 2023. November 2024 also saw a similar military exercise between the two countries. According to Iran’s state-affiliated news agency Tasnim, a video was released showing the arrival of Iranian forces in Azerbaijan and their initial meetings with Azerbaijani military leaders. An IRGC official stated that these exercises play a central role in reinforcing border security and dealing with potential challenges.
Relationship with Israel
Despite the military cooperation with Iran, Azerbaijan maintains a closer relationship with Israel, which complicates the geopolitical landscape. This week, Azerbaijan demonstrated its affinity for Israel during the Eurovision Song Contest, where it awarded Israel’s representative significant points. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant met with Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defense, General Zakir Hasanov, recognizing the high rating given to Israel as a testament to the strong friendship between the two governments and peoples.
Commitment to Continued Cooperation
During their meeting, Galant expressed gratitude to Hasanov for Azerbaijan’s mediation efforts with Turkey and its support for Israel post the October 7 attacks. The ministers agreed to continue and expand security cooperation and future collaborative efforts. Azerbaijan has emerged as a pivotal player in facilitating dialogue between Israel and Turkey amid tensions in Syria.
Maintaining Diplomatic Relations with Iran
While Azerbaijan’s ties with Israel flourish, it has not neglected its relationship with Iran. Iranian President Masoud Pajhakhian visited Baku last month and met Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, emphasizing Iran’s intention to establish strategic relations across scientific, cultural, economic, political, and security dimensions. Pajhakhian stated, “We can collaborate in all fields to ensure peace, tranquility, and security in the region and resolve our issues.”
Conclusion
The concurrent military exercises between Iran and Azerbaijan amid their strained relations and the ongoing collaboration between Azerbaijan and Israel illustrate a complex political dynamic in the region. Both countries appear committed to balancing their interactions while addressing security concerns and fostering diplomatic ties