Israel Strengthens Ties with Azerbaijan in Efforts for Trilateral Cooperation with the US

Israel is actively engaged in discussions with the United States to lay the groundwork for a trilateral cooperation framework involving Israel, Azerbaijan, and the US, as announced by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). The statement follows a motion raised in the Knesset by MK Simon Moshiashvili, from the Shas party, who emphasized the need to strengthen Israel's strategic alliance with Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan has long been recognized as a crucial strategic partner for Israel, especially in the Caucasus region. The relationship between the two countries spans various sectors, including security, trade, technology, and energy. National Missions Minister Orit Strock highlighted that this unique partnership is grounded in mutual interests and a shared history of friendship, which Israel plans to continue fostering.

In the Knesset discussion, Moshiashvili pointed out the "absurd situation" where countries, previously in conflict with Israel, have benefited from economic and security incentives after joining the Abraham Accords. He called for Azerbaijan to be included in this framework, citing the strong ties between the two nations. Despite Azerbaijan's pivotal role in Israel's regional security, it has faced sanctions from the US.

Moshiashvili also praised Azerbaijan’s Jewish community, which he described as "exemplary, active, thriving, and united," making it the only Jewish community in a Muslim-majority country with full government support. He noted the deep recognition of Israel within the Azerbaijani population, not just by the ruling elite. He also recounted the emotional support expressed by Azerbaijani citizens following the October 7 attacks, with Muslim citizens of Azerbaijan visiting the Israeli Embassy in Baku to offer flowers and memorial candles.

Minister Strock reinforced that the close bilateral relations are also manifested through reciprocal visits, such as Israel’s President visiting Azerbaijan and Azerbaijan’s National Security Advisor visiting Israel. She emphasized that these diplomatic exchanges are part of Israel's broader regional strategy to strengthen alliances and build bridges with more Muslim countries in the region.