Does Azerbaijan Support Israel or Palestine?
Does Azerbaijan Support Israel or Palestine?
The complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East often sees individual nations aligning with one side or the other in conflicts such as the ongoing tension between Israel and Palestine. This article delves into Azerbaijan's position in this binary contest, examining its strategic choices and the factors that influence its relationships with both countries.
Azerbaijan and the Muslim World
Azerbaijan, despite being a predominantly Muslim country, does not present a united front when it comes to supporting Palestine. Unlike many other Muslim nations, Azerbaijan has maintained a close and productive relationship with Palestine, albeit on its own terms.
Expressions of Sympathy and Solidarity
Expressions of solidarity with Palestine within Azerbaijan are notably limited. Approximately 90 percent of Azerbaijan's population identifies as Muslim. However, the country has not shown significant support for Palestine, either publicly or privately. This can be observed even during national celebrations that commemorate victories against geopolitical rivals such as Armenia.
Mass Celebrations and National Unity
For instance, following Azerbaijan's victory over Armenia in 2020, mass celebrations were marked by the display of Israeli flags. This unusual scenario reflects the alignment between Azerbaijan and Israel, despite Azerbaijan being a predominantly Muslim nation. It signifies a strategic partnership that transcends traditional Islamic solidarity.
Strategic Alliance with Israel
The friendship between Azerbaijan and Israel is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is part of a broader national strategy. This alliance is beneficial for both countries, with Azerbaijan serving as a key supplier of oil and Israel supplying weapons.
Geopolitical Woes and Partnerships
Azerbaijan, a relatively small and oil-rich country, may be geographically distant from the Middle East, but it is actively engaged in regional affairs. This engagement includes its strategic alliance with Israel, which is bolstered by the shared desire for security and economic benefits.
Support from Neighbors and Alliances
Azerbaijan's three major neighbors—Russia, Iran, and Turkey—are well-known for their vocal support of the Palestinian cause. Despite this, Azerbaijan maintains a close relationship with both Israel and Palestine. This decision showcases a pragmatic approach that prioritizes national interests over ideological affiliations.
Formal Diplomatic Relations
One of the most significant indicators of Azerbaijan's diplomatic stance was the meeting between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and his Israeli counterpart Isaac Herzog at the Munich Security Conference in February 2023. During this meeting, Ilham Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan's willingness to engage with Israel, emphasizing the strategic importance of this relationship.
Implications of Silence
By remaining silent on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Azerbaijan bolstered Israel's perception of not being isolated in the Muslim world. This strategic move highlights Azerbaijan's pragmatic approach to international relations, focusing on maintaining stability and strategic partnerships.
Engagement Amidst Backlash
Despite the potential backlash from other Muslim nations, Azerbaijan continued to champion its relationship with Israel. This engagement demonstrates the country's readiness to navigate complex geopolitical waters to achieve its national interests.
Conclusion
In summary, Azerbaijan's position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a nuanced blend of pragmatism and strategic alliances. The country's support for Israel is rooted in a shared interest in security and economic benefits, rather than ideological solidarity. As the region continues to evolve, Azerbaijan's position will remain a critical point of interest for both Israel and Palestine.