CNN has reported that Israel secretly deployed military and intelligence personnel in Azerbaijan during its recent war with Iran. The forces operated as part of a wider covert military network across the Middle East. According to the report, Israeli special forces and intelligence units were stationed in several locations in southern Azerbaijan, some only 60 miles from Iran’s Tabriz city. They were involved in intelligence gathering, drone operations, and special missions.

Sources cited by CNN said the deployed units included Israel’s elite special operations, heliborne combat and rescue forces, and Mossad members. Initially intended for emergency rescue operations, these positions later became intelligence and military bases. The report also stated that Israel established secret military positions in Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, and Somaliland, enabling long-range operations and strikes inside Iran. However, Azerbaijan’s embassy in the United States denied the allegations, calling them baseless.

Analysts noted that Israel has long viewed Azerbaijan as a strategic partner in its anti-Iran strategy, with cooperation extending to intelligence, defense, and energy sectors.