Israel-Azerbaijan: Despite the Constraints, a Special Relationship

Israel and Azerbaijan have enjoyed close diplomatic relations since they were formed in 1992, and these relations have become even tighter in recent years, mainly as a result of the threat posed by Iran to each state. It can be argued that the relations between the two countries are similar to some of Israel’s other special relationships – with Iran in the 1950s and 1960s, with South Africa in the 1970s and 1980s, and with Turkey in the 1990s. This article analyzes the interests of Israel and Azerbaijan in developing the close relationship, and evaluates the degree of stability in the strategic relations. Although the two countries have more than a few interests that encourage continued close relations, these interests must be balanced against pressures on Azerbaijan by its neighbors to cool its relations with Israel, and the degree of stability in the future rule of the Aliyev dynasty.