Israel Recognizes Armenian Genocide; Azerbaijan Condemns Move

Israel announced on Sunday that it recognizes the Armenian genocide, prompting a sharp reaction from Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry expressed serious concern, warning that the decision could negatively affect bilateral relations between the two countries, which have been allies in defense and security.

Azerbaijan, whose closest foreign partner is Turkey, called on Israel to reconsider, stating that such actions do not promote reconciliation or mutual understanding. "Instead, they deepen existing rifts and undermine efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region," the ministry said.

The Armenian genocide, in which an estimated 1.5 million Armenians died in massacres and deportations starting in 1915, has been recognized by over 20 countries, including the United States, France, and Germany. Turkey rejects the genocide designation, arguing that both Armenians and Turks perished during World War I.

Previous Israeli governments had avoided official recognition, partly to maintain good ties with Turkey, once a close strategic partner. However, since the war in Gaza, Turkey has regularly accused Israel of genocide against Palestinians, which Israel denies. This pressure likely influenced Israel's decision.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have been locked in a decades-long conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh but have recently taken steps to reduce tensions and pursue a comprehensive peace treaty.