Iranian analytical center: UAE–Azerbaijan–Israel alignment poses a strategic challenge to Iran

Published: 2025-12-13 12:04

The deepening relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Azerbaijan is linked to efforts “to contain Iran’s influence” and has, in recent years, evolved into a multidimensional strategic partnership, according to the Iranian analytical center Rahborde Moaser.

The center notes that in the security and defense sphere, Azerbaijan has sought to strengthen its military capabilities after the Karabakh war, while the UAE—an exporter of drone technologies and cybersecurity solutions—has emerged as an attractive partner. The two countries also share a common stance against political Islamist movements, enabling a degree of security coordination, Rahborde Moaser writes.

“A critical driver of the UAE–Azerbaijan rapprochement is Israel’s role. In the aftermath of the Abraham Accords, a trilateral framework—Baku–Abu Dhabi–Tel Aviv—has taken shape, encompassing security-technology transfers, coordination on Iran-related issues, and expanding economic ties. During the Gaza war, Azerbaijan ensured oil supplies to Israel, while the UAE intensified use of the Persian Gulf–Israel transit route. This suggests that trilateral cooperation is becoming an active, purpose-driven structure. Azerbaijan’s proximity to Iran’s borders and the presence of Israeli intelligence elevate this alignment into a strategic challenge for Tehran,” the analytical center adds.

By Azerbaijani-Israeli Alliance Global News