In a significant diplomatic escalation, Azerbaijan has reportedly withdrawn its diplomats from Iran, according to sources citing IFAX. This move comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the region, including recent military incidents and broader Middle East conflicts involving strikes on Iranian territory.
The decision follows a series of provocative events, including alleged Iranian drone strikes on Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan exclave, which injured civilians and prompted strong condemnation from Baku. President Ilham Aliyev described such actions as “terrorist acts” and placed the Azerbaijani military on high alert, vowing retaliatory measures through diplomatic and other channels.
Background of Azerbaijan-Iran Diplomatic Strain
Relations between Azerbaijan and Iran have been strained for years due to several factors:
- Azerbaijan’s growing ties with Israel
- Border incidents and mutual accusations
- Past events like the 2023 attack on the Azerbaijani embassy in Tehran
- Expulsions of diplomats in tit-for-tat moves (e.g., Azerbaijan expelling Iranian diplomats in 2023, followed by Iran’s response)
This development raises concerns about potential spillover from the wider Middle East conflict into the South Caucasus. Azerbaijan maintains a neutral stance publicly while prioritizing the safety of its citizens and territorial integrity.