Israel reportedly struck Iran’s naval forces in the Caspian Sea, potentially to counter Tehran’s pressure on Azerbaijan amid escalating tensions and a secret defense pact.
Rising Tensions Between Iran and Azerbaijan
Tensions between Iran and Azerbaijan have been escalating for years, with Iran adopting a more aggressive stance towards Azerbaijan in recent weeks.
Azerbaijan closed its land border with Iran following an attack by Arash-2 drones on an airport in Nakhchivan, which damaged a terminal and injured two civilians.
Previous Incidents
Prior incidents include an attack on the Azerbaijani embassy in Tehran in July 2023 and a thwarted attempt in Baku to establish the Huseyniyun organization, intended to overthrow Azerbaijan’s secular government.
The Israeli Strike
The Maritime Executive reports that the Israeli attack targeted a naval base in Bandar Anzali, reportedly destroying almost the entire Iranian fleet stationed in the Caspian Sea.
The strike may have aimed to prevent Iran from further pressuring Azerbaijan.
Disrupted Supply Route
The attack also reportedly disrupted a Russo-Iranian maritime transport route used by Moscow to deliver weapons to Tehran.
Potential Regional Consequences
Israel’s actions could be interpreted as encouragement for Baku to more closely align with an anti-Iranian coalition, potentially escalating the conflict due to Turkey’s military agreement with Azerbaijan.
