The enemy of my enemy: Azerbaijan's strategic partnership with Israel

The strategic relationship between Azerbaijan and Israel, particularly concerning oil sales and military cooperation, has become a focal point in regional politics, especially following Azerbaijan's victory in the Karabakh conflict.

Azerbaijan's oil exports to Israel have reportedly been transformed into precision-guided munitions utilized in the conflict against Armenia. This partnership is further evidenced by air logistics between the two nations, with cargo planes carrying weapons from Israel to Azerbaijan. International news agencies and Armenian media have discussed Israel's role and influence in Azerbaijan's swift takeover of Nagorno-Karabakh, fostering a notable pro-Israel sentiment within Azerbaijan, alongside support for Turkey.

The collaboration extends beyond mere trade, encompassing joint ventures in the defense industry. Reports suggest Israel has established listening posts along its 700 km border with Iran within Azerbaijan, aimed at monitoring Iran's nuclear program and military activities. This alleged cooperation has been denied by Azerbaijan, though Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed that dozens of agents and commandos were placed on the border following the killing of one of its special operations commanders.

According to reports citing the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and WikiLeaks documents, 69% of Azerbaijan's imported military equipment originates from Israel. Furthermore, American intelligence reports indicate that Israel has direct access to certain military bases in Azerbaijan, such as Sitalçay. This extensive military technological exchange has provided Azerbaijan with a significant advantage against Armenia, solidifying its military superiority in the Karabakh region.