SAEDNEWS: As tensions persist in the wake of the Iran–Israel conflict, reports from civilians and geopolitical analysts have intensified questions over Azerbaijan’s alleged facilitation of Israeli military activity.
According to Saed News, allegations of Azerbaijani complicity in Israel’s aerial campaign against Iran are gaining traction, despite emphatic denials from Baku. Citing a June 30 report by the Tehran Times, several Iranian civilians living in the provinces of Gilan, Mazandaran, and Ardabil described hearing drones or low-flying jets and witnessing suspicious aerial movements during the conflict. One resident in Rasht reported an explosion following the sound of aircraft—raising questions about cross-border incursions.
The provinces mentioned are geographically adjacent to Azerbaijan or the Caspian Sea, positioning them within plausible range of surveillance or drone operations. In Ardabil, which shares a direct border with Azerbaijan, witnesses reported drones emerging from mountainous terrain separating the two countries.
Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed these accounts, though the government is not dismissing them outright. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei stated that Iran’s neighbors had “firmly asserted” they did not permit Israeli operations on their soil, but confirmed that Iranian intelligence agencies are conducting an independent probe. President Masoud Pezeshkian also asked Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev to launch a domestic inquiry into the alleged violations. Aliyev flatly rejected the claims, maintaining that Azerbaijani airspace is tightly monitored and protected.
The issue is further complicated by Azerbaijan’s long-standing military and energy alliance with Israel. Baku supplies roughly 40% of Israel’s crude oil and receives advanced weaponry and surveillance technology in return. While Azerbaijani state-aligned media remain silent on the current allegations, their recent anti-Iran rhetoric—cited by the Tehran Times—has drawn condemnation from Tehran, especially after outlets close to President Aliyev accused Iran’s Supreme Leader of fearing Azerbaijan’s existence.
Though Iranian officials have publicly emphasized diplomacy and restraint, the growing body of civilian testimony and regional tensions is placing mounting pressure on both governments to address the suspicions head-on.
