Iran-Azerbaijan Tensions Rise Over Alleged Israeli Airspace Use

Tensions between Russia and Azerbaijan have escalated significantly after two ethnic Azerbaijani brothers died in Russian custody amid a police operation in Yekaterinburg, leading to mutual detentions and diplomatic protests. Azerbaijan retaliated by arresting over 10 Russian nationals, including media employees, further inflaming hostilities, while Russia expanded its crackdown on Azerbaijanis within its borders. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan faces increasing friction with Iran, which accuses Baku of allowing Israeli military aircraft to use its airspace to conduct strikes during Operation Rising Lion, a charge Azerbaijan denies. Iranian officials have called for investigations into the alleged use of Azerbaijani airspace for Israeli attacks, with reports of drone and fighter jet activity near the Iran-Azerbaijan border raising concerns. The situation has led to sharp rhetoric from both sides, with Azerbaijani media blaming Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei for aggressive policies, while Iran insists on sovereignty violations. These overlapping conflicts reflect Azerbaijan’s precarious position amid regional rivalries involving Russia, Iran, and Israel.