Azerbaijan denied reports that Israel used its territory for military or intelligence operations against Iran on Friday [1], [2].

The denial comes as regional tensions rise, with reports suggesting that Azerbaijani soil served as a launchpad for Israeli activities. Because Azerbaijan shares a significant border with Iran, any confirmation of such operations would likely escalate diplomatic friction between Baku and Tehran.

A spokesperson for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said the claims are "completely groundless" [1]. The government said that it has never provided its territory for any action against a third country, including Iran [1].

These allegations surfaced in news reports based on anonymous and unverified sources [1], [5]. Some reports specifically alleged that Azerbaijan secretly hosted Israeli troops or Mossad agents amid ongoing conflicts involving Iran [2].

Baku maintains a policy of neutrality regarding the use of its land for foreign military objectives [1]. The strategic importance of the region is highlighted by the 700 kilometers [1] of border that Azerbaijan shares with Iran.

Official representatives in Baku said the reports do not reflect the reality of the country's foreign policy [1]. The government said that its sovereignty and territorial integrity are not used to facilitate attacks on neighboring states [1], [3].

“"completely groundless"”

This denial reflects Azerbaijan's need to balance its strategic security relationship with Israel against the necessity of maintaining a functional relationship with Iran. Given the shared border, any perception that Azerbaijan is facilitating Israeli strikes could provoke a direct military or diplomatic response from Tehran, which would destabilize the South Caucasus region.