- BIST10012,151-0.94%
- USD49.220.00%
- EUR55.21+0.28%
- GOLD4,198.30+0.18%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN82,659-1.21%
- October 13, 202618°
- BIST10012,151-0.94%
- USD49.220.00%
- EUR55.21+0.28%
- GOLD4,198.30+0.18%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN82,659-1.21%
- October 13, 202618°
Israel's recognition of 'Armenian genocide' deepens crisis with Azerbaijan
The Israeli government's decision to recognize the 'Armenian genocide' has triggered a deep crisis in relations with Azerbaijan. While Baku believes Tel Aviv crossed a red line, Turkey also reacted harshly to the decision.
The Israeli government's decision to recognize the "Armenian genocide" has triggered a deep crisis between Tel Aviv and Baku. According to a report by Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, citing unnamed officials, Azerbaijan views this move as "crossing a red line" and believes Israel has not reciprocated the support Baku has provided since the Gaza war.
Azerbaijan's Two Main Objections
The report states that Baku's objections to the Israeli government's decision fall under two main headings:
- Decision-making method: Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar spoke with his Azerbaijani counterpart after the decision was published; this was perceived as notification rather than consultation.
- Lack of sensitivity: While Israel supports the Armenian narrative on the history between the two countries, it faces accusations of ethnic cleansing and genocide in Gaza.
The historical dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia resulted in Nagorno-Karabakh coming fully under Azerbaijani control after the 2023 war. In the early 1990s, around one million Azerbaijanis were forced to flee the disputed region. Baku is also concerned about the activities of the Armenian National Committee, which works internationally for the recognition of the "Armenian genocide."
Disappointment and Past Stance
An official who spoke to Yedioth Ahronoth said that Azerbaijan did not take a stance against Israel on Gaza, Lebanon, or Iran, remaining silent despite international pressure, but Israel did not show the same sensitivity. The official asked, "Why is Israel risking its good relations with Azerbaijan and damaging the trust built over the years?"
It was recalled that when a similar issue came up in the Israeli parliament (Knesset) previously, then-Foreign Minister Yair Lapid met with Azerbaijani officials, listened to their objections, and it was decided not to issue an official statement. Now, Baku hopes the crisis will not escalate and that the matter will not be put to a vote in the Knesset.
Harsh Reaction from Turkey
A week ago, the Israeli government unanimously recognized the "Armenian genocide" on the proposal of Foreign Minister Sa'ar. This move further inflamed already tense relations with Turkey. While Turkey rejects the genocide label, its strategic partner Azerbaijan also opposed the decision.
The Turkish government described Israel's move as "a vengeful political maneuver and an attempt to distract attention." President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in a statement to Anadolu Agency, said Israel was trying to "cover up its crimes" and target Turkey with slander.
Speaking ahead of a NATO summit to be held in Ankara, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said in an interview with CNN Türk that Israel's policies and mentality have become a burden that humanity can no longer bear, adding, "Israel poses a problem for all of humanity."
Stay Updated with The Turkiye Times
Subscribe to be informed about special news, developments and announcements. We will keep you informed.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy
