Iran Daily: Israel’s growing footprint in Azerbaijan raises ‘red alert’

Iran is closely monitoring the strengthening of ties between Israel and Azerbaijan and has expressed concern over what it perceives as a growing strategic partnership. Iran Daily, Iranian presidential administration’s official mouthpiece, published an article titled “Israel’s growing footprint in Azerbaijan raises red alert”.

The article calls on Iran’s security and governmental agencies to closely watch developments in the Caucasus region.

Tehran’s concerns regarding the deepening strategic ties between Israel, the U.S., and Azerbaijan have been emphasized, as this could expand Israel’s presence in the Caucasus and weaken Iran’s regional influence.

The publication cited reports from the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA), which were reportedly presented to the Trump administration. These reports characterize Azerbaijan as “a pillar of Israel’s regional security,” highlighting three decades of intelligence and energy cooperation. The BESA report also noted that the U.S. could offer Azerbaijan participation in the reconstruction of Gaza, particularly through the supply of energy resources, but only if other Muslim countries join the initiative. Tehran views this as an attempt to expand the Abraham Accords and undermine Iran’s influence in the Arab world.

Additionally, the article says Iran is concerned that the U.S. may lift sanctions against Azerbaijan under Article 907. Tehran fears that this would pave the way for expanded military assistance to Baku and closer security ties with Israel and the U.S. According to Iran Daily, all Iranian government officials involved in national security and foreign policy should study BESA’s proposals. The article also calls on Iran to strengthen its alliance with Armenia as a counterweight to Israeli and U.S. influence in the Caucasus.