Drones Attack Aid Vessel Off Malta Amid Gaza Conflict

Azerbaijan and Israel have developed a deep strategic alliance characterized by robust energy and military cooperation, with Azerbaijan supplying a significant portion of Israel's oil needs and purchasing Israeli arms, even as much of the Muslim world condemns Israel's actions in Gaza. This partnership has remained steadfast through regional upheavals and is now expanding into high-tech sectors. Meanwhile, regime change in Syria has heightened tensions between Turkey and Israel, two key U.S. allies with conflicting interests in the region, as Turkey-backed forces have supplanted Iranian influence. Azerbaijan, due to its unique ties with both Ankara and Jerusalem, is positioned as a potential mediator to prevent direct confrontation between Turkey and Israel, as evidenced by recent security talks held in Baku. These developments underscore Azerbaijan's growing diplomatic significance in managing shifting alliances and security challenges in the Middle East.