Why Does Israel Support Azerbaijan and Disapprove of Armenia?
Israel's support for Azerbaijan and its disapproval of Armenia is a complex issue rooted in geopolitical, economic, and historical factors. This article delves into the reasons behind this support, examining specific instances and context.
Israeli Weaponry and Bilateral Cooperation
The situation between Israel and Azerbaijan highlights a significant development in their relationship. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), 70% of the weapons Azerbaijan received from abroad in recent years were of Israeli origin. This substantial supply of Israeli weaponry has been crucial in Azerbaijan's recent military success, particularly in the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.
Israeli Military Support to Azerbaijan
Several Israeli defense companies have provided Azerbaijan with cutting-edge military equipment. These include:
1. IWI
The Israeli weapons manufacturer IWI supplied Azerbaijan with the Lynx Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), which has a range of 150 kilometers. This system plays a significant role in modern artillery warfare.
2. “Taasiya Tsvait”
“Taasiya Tsvait” has supplied LAR-160 missiles with a range of 45 kilometers and ATMOS-2000 self-propelled artillery mounts, which 120 mm caliber mortars. The company has also provided advanced Hermes-450 and Hermes-900 UAVs, as well as the modernization of Azerbaijan's tank fleet. Additionally, they supply Harop series glide munitions, LORA ballistic missiles, Barak air defense missiles, and Elta radars.
3. RAFAEL
RAFAEL’s contribution includes Spike anti-tank missiles. These missiles are renowned for their precision and effectiveness in hitting targeted locations.
Strategic Alliances and Economic Interests
The Israeli and Azeri cooperation extends beyond military hardware. There is also a mutually beneficial economic relationship. A notable example is the provision of oil by Baku to Israel. Approximately 30% of the oil consumed in Israel is sourced from Azerbaijan. This partnership signifies both countries' commitment to fostering economic ties and mutual development.
Given Israel's strategic location and its history of conflict and security concerns, it is important for it to maintain stable and friendly relations with its Gentile allies. Azerbaijan has been a steadfast ally, providing crucial support and economic benefits to Israel.
Israel's Concerns Regarding Armenia
Israel's disapproval of Armenia is driven by several factors, including historical, political, and economic concerns:
Historical Context
Armenia's decision to purchase weapons primarily from Russia is considered polycentric and pragmatic. It is a matter of strategic decision-making rather than any anti-Israel stance. On the other hand, Armenia's behavior has raised concerns in Israel about its potential alignment with Iran. Rumors suggest that a new route for smuggling weapons to pro-Iranian groups has emerged from Iran through Armenia.
In response, some Israeli commentators and politicians have blamed Armenia, emphasizing that it has abandoned its role as a reliable ally in favor of closer ties with Iran. This has exacerbated tensions and led to increased attacks attributed to Israel in Syria.
Economic and Cultural Ties
Israel and Azerbaijan have strong, multifaceted relationships, including economic, diplomatic, and cultural ties. In contrast, Israel and Armenia have virtually no trade relations, and Armenia's antisemitic tendencies have resulted in strained relations. The Armenian slang term for Jews, 'ochar', essentially translates to 'soap', a disturbing and historically charged term.
For Israel, maintaining close ties with Azerbaijan, a country that has been a reliable ally for decades, is crucial. On the other hand, aligning with Armenia would be detrimental due to the economic and cultural boycott, as well as the antisemitic sentiments prevalent in the country.
Conclusion
The reasons behind Israel's support for Azerbaijan and disapproval of Armenia are multifaceted, involving geopolitical, economic, and historical factors. Israel's strategic alliances and economic interests play a significant role in shaping these relationships. As for the personal perspective of the author, despite his wife being Armenian, the history and current context heavily influence his stance.
Ultimately, Israel has to balance its alliances and interests carefully to navigate a complex international landscape. The choice to align with Azerbaijan over Armenia reflects the strategic and pragmatic considerations that drive Israel's foreign policy decisions.