Azerbaijan distances itself from Israeli strikes on Iran

In June 2025, Azerbaijan faced a precarious geopolitical situation amidst heightened tensions brought about by Israel's military operations targeting Iranian nuclear and missile sites. As Israel ramped up its campaign against Iran, Azerbaijan, bordered to the north by Iran and having a tumultuous history with the country, was caught in a diplomatic conundrum. Azerbaijan's leadership sought to maintain cordial relations with both Israel, a key supplier of advanced weaponry, and Iran, which holds significant power in the region. This delicate balance was underscored by Azerbaijan's concerns over Tehran's ability to influence its rival Armenia, complicating matters further. Azerbaijan's foreign policy stressed the importance of avoiding a military confrontation with Iran, with officials expressing serious concern about the escalation of Israeli actions. Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry released statements emphasizing its commitment to not supporting military activities that could lead to loss of life or destabilize regional dynamics. Notably, prominent Azerbaijani experts indicated that Baku's strategic calculations stemmed from a desire to maintain stability and peace in a region characterized by ongoing conflicts, particularly the long-standing tensions with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh. The relationship between Azerbaijan and Israel is complex, rooted in mutual interests that include security cooperation and military trade. Azerbaijan heavily relies on Israeli drones and other advanced military technology, which proved instrumental in recent conflicts with Armenia over disputed territories. However, this relationship also raises eyebrows in Iran, which fears that closer ties between Baku and Jerusalem might serve as a backdrop for military operations against Iranian interests. Such concerns were heightened following Tehran's repeated assertions that Israeli activity could destabilize the region. Increasingly, Azerbaijan finds itself in the difficult position of having to carefully broker its relationships, promoting its own interests while ensuring it does not fall into the crossfire of larger geopolitical conflicts. As tensions continue to simmer, the prospects for peace and stability in the South Caucasus remain uncertain. The current situation serves as a reminder of the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that define the region, and how small states must navigate these challenges with caution to avoid becoming embroiled in conflicts that could lead to far-reaching consequences for all parties involved.