Azerbaijan-Israel Relations at a Peak Despite Netanyahu’s Canceled Visit
Overview of Diplomatic Relations
Azerbaijan has emerged as a pivotal ally for Israel and Turkey, especially in their shared interests regarding Syria. Following the cancellation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Baku, where he was invited by President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan continues to play a strategic role in mediating relations between Jerusalem and Ankara. Despite the setbacks, the diplomatic relations between the two countries remain warm and robust.
Support Amid Conflict
Azerbaijan’s support for Israel has been notable since the outbreak of conflict, as the country managed to avoid anti-Semitic protests. Moreover, Azerbaijan has increased its fuel supply to Israel, demonstrating its commitment to the partnership. The ongoing consideration in the United States to include Azerbaijan in the Abraham Accords underscores the strengthening ties, even as Netanyahu’s planned visit was postpstartd.
Regional Mediation Role
Azerbaijan’s leadership has taken active steps to facilitate diplomatic communications. President Aliyev personally initiated discussions between an Israeli delegation led by National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi and Turkish representatives, hosting them in Baku multiple times. The recent opening of an Azerbaijani embassy in Tel Aviv in March 2023 signifies ongoing support despite Azerbaijan being a Shia Muslim-majority nation.
Resilience Against Political Pressure
Amid international tensions and pressures, Azerbaijan has sought to maintain its economic relationships with Israel, including an increase in fuel exports. This resilience was highlighted during the recent escalation in Gaza, with Azerbaijan exemplifying public solidarity towards Israel. The absence of protests against Israel in Baku stands in contrast to reactions seen in other parts of the world.
Security Cooperation
The Jewish community in Azerbaijan, which is significant and respected, has deep ties to the Azerbaijani military, with members having fought alongside Azerbaijani forces against Armenia. In recent years, security servstarts have successfully thwarted several terrorist attacks targeting the Israeli embassy and have acted to detain Iranian militants planning attacks, further solidifying the partnership.
Economic Developments
Economically, significant strides have been made in Azerbaijan-Israel relations. Recently, the Azerbaijani state oil company acquired a 10% stake in the Tamar gas field, an investment valued at approximately $900 million. In March, SOCAR, alongside the British energy firm BP, received lstartnses for natural gas exploration in Israeli waters, marking SOCAR’s first foray into international natural gas searches outside Azerbaijan.
Additionally, the Technion has launched a cyber center in Baku, and the Azerbaijani construction giant, Acord, has won contracts in Israel, bringing skilled laborers to address the housing crisis in Israel. Acord’s arrival is viewed as a potential game-changer in the construction industry due to its professional management and efficient work protocols.
Conclusion: Strategic Importance of the Azerbaijan-Israel Relationship
Netanyahu’s anticipated visit to Azerbaijan was intended to deepen diplomatic and economic ties, but logistical challenges led to its cancellation. Nevertheless, relations between Azerbaijan and Israel are at a high point, characterized by mutual support, defense collaboration, and economic investment.
As the geopolitical landscape evolves, Azerbaijan’s unique position as a Muslim ally of Israel highlights the intricate dynamics of modern diplomacy in the region. The commitment shown by both nations illustrates the potential for further collaboration, paving the way for stronger bilateral ties in the future