Baku: The Israeli government’s decision regarding the so-called “Armenian genocide” has been met with strong opposition from Azerbaijan, which sees it as counterproductive to the Azerbaijan-Trkiye strategic partnership and contrary to the emerging geopolitical realities in the region. The decision not only politicizes historical events but also undermines the principles of international law and objectivity in historical research, failing to build trust between states. Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its prompt and principled stance, reinforcing its commitment to the “one nation, two states” principle with Trkiye, especially on sensitive international issues.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement that reflects a principled position grounded in international law. The statement highlights significant concerns over the Israeli government’s decision regarding the so-called “Armenian genocide,” emphasizing that distorting historical facts and turning complex historical processes into political decisions without scientific or legal basis is unacceptable. Such actions, the statement notes, do not foster reconciliation or mutual understanding, but rather deepen existing divisions, obstructing efforts for lasting peace and stability in the region.
The statement from Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry calls on the Israeli government to reconsider its decision. It warns of the dangerous precedent this decision could set for the international system, stressing that history should be handled by historians, not politicians. Political judgments on century-old events by governments or parliaments lack scientific methodology and contravene international law principles. These actions do not build trust between states but instead create new conflicts. Azerbaijan’s position remains firmly rooted in international law and commitment to regional peace.
Following Israel’s decision, Azerbaijan was the sole country to issue an official statement supporting Trkiye. The enduring relationship between Azerbaijan and Trkiye extends beyond a traditional alliance to a strategic brotherhood, embodying the “one nation, two states” principle. This principle is not merely rhetorical; it translates into practical political conduct, with Azerbaijan consistently supporting Trkiye’s national interests. Just as Trkiye supported Azerbaijan during the 44-day Patriotic War, Azerbaijan stands resolutely with Trkiye on issues impacting its interests, reinforcing their strategic alliance built on mutual trust.
In recent years, some circles have attempted to portray Azerbaijan as “pro-Israel” to the Turkish public, using unfounded narratives to sway opinion. Certain political groups and media platforms accused Baku of aligning closely with Israel, invoking “Muslim solidarity” to criticize Azerbaijan. However, Azerbaijan’s swift support for Trkiye following Israel’s decision dispels these claims, showing that Azerbaijan’s foreign policy is driven by national interests, international law, and strategic alliances.
The current situation provides Trkiye an opportunity to reassess its allies. Despite Trkiye’s principled stance on the Palestinian issue and its consistent support for Palestinian rights, no official statement in support of Ankara was issued by Palestine following Israel’s decision. This silence contrasts with Azerbaijan’s immediate support and serves as a reminder that true allies stand by each other in times of need. Azerbaijan’s actions highlight the importance of concrete support over mere statements in international relations.
There are historical facts within the region’s political history that cannot be overlooked. Former Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat had close ties with Armenian officials, and the current Palestinian foreign minister is of Armenian descent. Additionally, Armenian terrorist organizations have historically operated camps in Palestine and Lebanon, launching attacks against Turkish diplomats. These historical complexities should inform assessments and highlight the necessity of objective historical studies over emotional responses.
Israel’s decision could strain Israel-Trkiye relations and its strategic partnership with Azerbaijan. Despite successful cooperation between Azerbaijan and Israel in various domains, the Israeli government’s decision threatens to undermine these relations. Azerbaijan’s call for Israel to reconsider the decision is constructive and responsible, advocating for diplomacy based on mutual respect, international law, and strategic partnership principles. Trkiye can use this situation to evaluate its true friends and reliable partners.