An Analysis of the Goals and Extent of Israeli Influence in the Caucasus Region and the Interwoven Factors of Their Relations
The presence of the Israeli regime in northwestern Iran and the Caucasus region has complicated the relations among neighboring countries on both sides of the Aras River, leading to occasional conflicts. To implement its goals near two regional powers bordering the Caucasus—Russia and Iran—Israel has increased its cooperation and influence in the South Caucasus, both to benefit from energy resources and to counter the Islamic Republic of Iran’s hardline activities against it.
Recently, with the rise of military threats from the occupying regime and the holding of various military exercises aimed at attacking Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, it has become necessary to make decisions regarding the behavior of countries supporting this regime in the Caucasus.
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Objectives of the Israeli Regime’s Influence in the Caucasus Region
Israel’s influence in the Caucasus aims to prevent regional adversaries from accessing nuclear technology, create evacuation networks for Jews, expand economic ties—especially in agriculture—and hinder Muslim countries from uniting against Israel politically.
Israel’s Relations with the South Caucasus Countries
Georgia: Important for regional strategy and intelligence; strong diplomatic and travel ties.
Armenia: Diplomatic relations exist but limited by Israel’s ties with Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan: Key military and energy partner with growing cooperation and significant trade, especially in oil and agriculture.
Security Challenges for Iran
Israel’s involvement in Azerbaijan poses security challenges for Iran, including ethnic tensions, espionage, sabotage of Iran’s nuclear program, military threats near Armenia, diplomatic pressure to open an embassy in occupied Palestine, and cultural propaganda against Iran.
Factors of Intertwined Relations Between the Israeli Regime and South Caucasus Countries and Iran’s Response
Israel’s deep ties with South Caucasus countries—especially Azerbaijan and Georgia—are driven by shared security concerns, economic interests, and regional rivalries. This close relationship, combined with Israeli espionage and cultural-political tensions, has increased tensions with Iran, prompting Iran to consider stronger responses.
This study was conducted at Trend Thinktank by Ramin Farhoudi Zarnagh in 2022.
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