Jewish leaders to Muslim nation’s president: “Your support for Israel will be recognized”

The first-ever visit of AIPAC leaders Michael Tuchin and Bernie Kaminetsky to Baku for discussions with President Ilham Aliyev took place this week. It symbolizes the future change in the US policy towards the region. Donald Trump’s political platform, which strongly emphasizes Israel’s role as a key ally through strategic decisions and high-level appointments, brings Azerbaijan a renewed opportunity to gain recognition for its long-standing partnership with the Jewish state. 

As a reliable ally, Azerbaijan has played a pivotal role in ensuring Israel's energy security, acting as a major oil supplier and strengthening mutual interests in regional stability and energy independence. This partnership, rooted in over 30 years of cooperation, reflects a unique bond between Muslim-majority and Jewish-majority nations, offering a model of collaboration that transcends traditional geopolitical divides.

Azerbaijan has long been a steadfast supporter of strong relations with Jewish leaders and the State of Israel, reflecting a deep tradition of tolerance and interfaith harmony. Unlike many other countries in the region, Azerbaijan has been notable for its absence of anti-Israel demonstrations, even during periods of heightened tensions in the Middle East. The solidarity of the Azerbaijani people with Israel was especially evident in the aftermath of the tragic events of October 7, 2023. Following the attack, a spontaneous outpouring of support emerged as people made pilgrimages to the Israeli embassy in Baku, bringing flowers, candles, and soft toys in remembrance of the victims.

The country’s Jewish community, which has thrived for centuries, enjoys full rights and respect, with active synagogues, cultural institutions, and strong governmental support. This unique dynamic has positioned Azerbaijan as a model of coexistence and a trusted ally of Israel.

Recent diplomatic engagements further underscore Azerbaijan’s proactive efforts to strengthen its relationship with key players in the global Jewish community and Israel.

The arrival in Baku of both the current and incoming leaders of AIPAC demonstrates a clear recognition of Azerbaijan's pivotal role in regional stability and its unwavering support for Israel. It also reflects an acknowledgment that past U.S. administrations did not fully appreciate the value of engaging with Azerbaijan.

It must be noted that Ilham Aliyev’s meeting with AIPAC leaders followed the arrival of his political adviser, Hikmat Hajiyev, to Israel for a series of high-level discussions. He had a meeting with President Yitzhak Herzog, while Azerbaijani Ambassador Mukhtar Mammadov met with Yuli Edelstein, Chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. 

These developments reflect Azerbaijan’s strategic positioning amid the shifting Middle Eastern landscape and align with its anticipation of a strengthened U.S.-Israel partnership under Trump’s administration.

For Trump and Israel, Azerbaijan carries additional value. One of the leading and independent post-Soviet countries, Azerbaijan can serve as a bridge to the Turkic world, stretching from China to Europe. President Aliyev, who already has experience mediating between Turkey and Israel, could do so again today. Considering the current situation in Syria and the weakening of Iran’s influence in the region, the Azerbaijani leader could help de-escalate tensions in a region that Trump considers highly important.

This article was written in cooperation with Shuva Israel