Exclusive: Israel sent troops to Azerbaijan during Iran war as part of secret network across region, sources say
Exclusive: Israel’s Secret Military Network Expands During Iran Conflict
Exclusive – CNN has uncovered a hidden military alliance involving Israel, as the country deployed elite forces and intelligence operatives to Azerbaijan during the ongoing Iran war. According to four insider sources, these covert operations were part of a broader strategic effort to establish positions across the Middle East, enabling Israel to conduct targeted strikes and gather critical intelligence on its adversary. The deployment, first reported by CNN, revealed a network of secret installations that extended Israel’s military reach into Iran’s territory, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions.
Israeli Forces in Southern Azerbaijan
Exclusive details that Israeli military units, including special operations forces and intelligence personnel, were stationed in southern Azerbaijan near the Iranian border. The location, just 60 miles from Tabriz, became a crucial hub for Israeli operations. During the war, Israel launched strikes on Tabriz, and Azerbaijani territory served as a strategic vantage point for these attacks. Sources emphasized that the deployment was not solely for surveillance but also to support combat operations deep within Iranian borders.
“We firmly reject unfounded claims regarding the alleged use of Azerbaijan’s territory for operations against third countries,” stated a spokesperson for the Azerbaijani embassy in the United States, when questioned by CNN.
Additionally, special commando units were active in the region, carrying out intelligence-gathering missions and drone strikes. These activities provided Israel with real-time data on Iranian military movements, enhancing its ability to coordinate attacks. The presence of Israeli forces in Azerbaijan also facilitated rapid response capabilities, allowing for aerial rescue missions if pilots were downed near the border.
Covert Bases in Multiple Countries
Exclusive reveals that Israel’s strategic footprint extended beyond Azerbaijan, with secret military sites established in Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, and Somaliland. Each location played a distinct role in the overall plan. In Iraq, two undisclosed bases were used for logistics support and search-and-rescue operations, according to the sources. These facilities, first reported by the Wall Street Journal and New York Times, were operational during the war and provided Israel with a foothold in the region.
Meanwhile, the breakaway republic of Somaliland became another key node in Israel’s network. The sources indicated that the country allowed Israeli aircraft to stop there during long-range missions to Iran, offering a critical refueling point. This partnership was notable, as Israel became the first nation to formally recognize Somaliland in December, and the UAE maintains a substantial military presence in Berbera, further strengthening the alliance.
“There were no unauthorized bases or forces in the country as of early March,” said Iraq’s military in a statement, addressing CNN’s inquiry about the Israeli presence.
Exclusive highlights the deployment of Israel’s Iron Dome defense system in the UAE, a development first highlighted by Axios. The battery, along with operational personnel, underscores Israel’s efforts to secure its assets in the region. Despite CNN’s previous reports, the UAE denied the claim of an Israeli visit during the war, though it confirmed the presence of military cooperation.
Strategic Preparations Before the Conflict
According to the sources, Israel’s covert operations in Azerbaijan were part of a long-term plan to counter Iran. The preparations began weeks before the war’s opening strikes, as Iran crushed widespread protests with a violent crackdown on demonstrators. The initial phase involved installing listening devices and intelligence equipment along the Azerbaijan-Iran border to lay the groundwork for future operations.
Exclusive insights suggest that these early efforts created a flexible military network, allowing Israel to monitor Iran from multiple angles. The combined presence in Azerbaijan, Somaliland, and Iraq significantly increased Israel’s operational range, enabling strikes on targets in northern, western, and southern regions of Iran. Each location offered unique advantages, reinforcing Israel’s strategic position in the region.
