Azerbaijan denies report Israel attacked Iran from its territory
Azerbaijani authorities vehemently denied a CNN report claiming Israel carried out advanced intelligence and military operations from its territory during the war with Iran.
TL;DR
- Azerbaijani authorities have vehemently denied a CNN report accusing Israel of conducting advanced intelligence and military operations from Azerbaijani territory against Iran.
- The CNN report cited four sources, claiming Israel deployed commandos and Mossad operatives from secret bases in southern Azerbaijan, including drone assassinations.
- Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry called the allegations "entirely baseless" and "categorically rejected," stating their territory is not used for hostile purposes.
- The report mentioned Israeli commandos installing listening devices and the potential for Azerbaijan to be unaware of expanded operations beyond a base for rescuing downed airmen and refueling jets.
- Following an alleged Iranian drone strike on Nakhchivan International Airport, Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev condemned Iran's actions as an "act of terror," while Iran's military blamed Israel for a false flag attack.
- Analysts have long speculated about Israel using Azerbaijan against Iran, highlighting the strategic importance of their bilateral relationship, with Azerbaijan supplying oil and Israel providing technology.
- A recent visit by U.S. Vice President JD Vance to Azerbaijan may have heightened Iranian suspicions about the use of its territory.