President Isaac Herzog has canceled his Azerbaijan visit due to Turkey banning Israeli aircraft from its airspace. Initially believed to stem from security issues related to Iran, Herzog was set to attend COP29 on November 20. His visit would have underscored the strong Israel-Azerbaijan relationship, particularly after Azerbaijan opened an embassy in Israel earlier this year.
President Isaac Herzog of Israel has canceled his planned visit to Azerbaijan ahead of the COP29 climate conference, which is scheduled to take place on November 20. Reports from Caliber, an Azerbaijani news outlet, indicate that the cancellation stems from Turkey’s decision to restrict an Israeli aircraft from utilizing its airspace. Initially, Israeli media suggested that the cancellation was due to security concerns, especially given Azerbaijan’s proximity to Iran. During a reception for the upcoming United Nations Conference on Climate Change, President Herzog expressed pride in Israel’s leadership role in addressing climate challenges. His relationship with Azerbaijan has been characterized as strong and multifaceted, encompassing not only defense collaborations but also trade, tourism, and energy sectors. This trip would have followed Herzog’s previous visit to Baku, where he acknowledged the significance of bilateral ties, especially as Azerbaijan recently became the first Shia Muslim nation to open an embassy in Israel, in March 2023.
The relationship between Israel and Azerbaijan has been consistently expanding, marked by mutual interests in security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. This bond is particularly noteworthy given Azerbaijan’s geographic position bordering the Islamic Republic of Iran — which has posed security challenges for Israel. The upcoming COP29 climate conference was anticipated as an opportunity to further enhance dialogues in environmental action and cooperation. President Herzog’s previous visit to Baku underscored the importance of both countries working together on various fronts, reinforcing their diplomatic relations in the wake of Azerbaijan’s historic embassy establishment in Israel.
In summary, President Herzog’s cancellation of his visit to Azerbaijan reflects geopolitical tensions, particularly Turkey’s airspace restrictions towards Israeli aircraft. Although initial reports suggested that the decision stemmed from security issues, it also highlights the broader context of Israel’s strategic partnerships and climate leadership. As global leaders convene for COP29 without Herzog in attendance, Israel’s commitment to facing climate challenges remains a point of pride.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
