Evolution of Strategic Relations Between Azerbaijan and Israel During the Heydar Aliyev Period

The foundations of the current relationship between Azerbaijan and Israel were established by Heydar Aliyev. The roots of this enduring partnership were planted in the early 1990s, during President H. Aliyev's tenure, which was a pivotal period in Azerbaijan's struggle for formation and statehood amid a volatile geopolitical landscape. It was during this critical juncture that Israel extended its hand to Azerbaijan, offering a collaborative alliance. President H. Aliyev astutely embraced this opportunity, and over time, this collaboration blossomed into the robust strategic partnership we witness today. This profound friendship was cultivated on a bedrock of geopolitical, economic, and ideological foundations. The first pillar of this relationship was anchored in the realm of energy. Israel sought a stable and secure energy supply, while Azerbaijan possessed a wealth of hydrocarbon resources and sought viable markets. Thus, an energy alliance was forged, with Israel commencing its purchase of Azerbaijani oil as early as the 1990s. With the operationalization of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline, this energy partnership was further solidified, encompassing Turkey as a transit nation and Kazakhstan as an additional oil provider. Presently, a substantial portion of Israel's oil requirements is met through the BTC. Beyond energy, President H. Aliyev was resolute in his aspiration to fortify Azerbaijan's economic, political, and defense capabilities. The Israeli government readily extended support toward this endeavor. Notably, Israeli companies embarked on ventures in Azerbaijan from the very inception of this alliance. Since 1994, Bakcell emerged as a joint venture between the Azerbaijani Ministry of Communications and the Israeli GTIB, marking a significant milestone as the first cellular operator in Azerbaijan. Furthermore, Israel played an instrumental role in enhancing Azerbaijan's military and defense capacities, modernizing its Soviet-era weaponry, and providing invaluable training. Azerbaijan's access to cutting-edge weaponry has predominantly been facilitated through Israel and Turkey. Ideational affinities have also served as a potent force in nurturing these relations, particularly through the enduring bonds between the peoples. Azerbaijan stands as a haven for a thriving Jewish community, untouched by the scourge of anti-Semitism. Throughout its storied history, Azerbaijan has provided sanctuary to Jews fleeing persecution and pogroms in neighboring territories. For the Jewish community, who have borne the brunt of historical persecution, finding a sanctuary where their brethren have thrived in peace for centuries holds immeasurable significance. In addition to cultivating ties with Israel, President H. Aliyev was instrumental in fostering connections with Jewish organizations in the United States. These organizations played a pivotal role in advocating for Azerbaijan's interests on critical matters, such as securing congressional support for the BTC project and waiving Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act.