No attack on Iran through Azerbaijan, Azeri defense minister says
Despite arms deal with Israel in February, Azerbaijan agrees to closer military ties with Iran
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran’s state TV is reporting Azerbaijan’s defense minister pledges not to allow anyone to attack Iran through his country.
The report says the visiting minister, Gen. Safar Abiyev, told reporters Azerbaijan will not act against “great Iran” or allow such an attack. This came after he met his Iranian counterpart, Gen. Ahmad Vahidi, on Monday.
Abiyev said Azerbaijan will continue to improve its military ties with Iran.
On Feb. 29, Israel signed a $1.6 billion deal to sell drones, anti-aircraft and missile defense systems toAzerbaijan, bringing Israeli technology to the border of archenemy Iran.
Israel has hinted at an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, charging Iran is trying to make nuclear weapons. Iran denies that.
Iran has expressed concern over alleged Israeli intelligence activity in the oil-rich Caucasian state.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.