In a diplomatic show of solidarity, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz met today (Monday) in Jerusalem with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Defense Minister General Zakir Hasanov. The two discussed strengthening bilateral defense cooperation and expanding strategic ties between their nations.
Friendship and Security Cooperation
During the meeting, Katz thanked Hasanov for Azerbaijan’s efforts in mediating between Israel and Turkey. He also praised Azerbaijan’s strong stance alongside Israel in the aftermath of the Hamas massacre on October 7. Katz conveyed his appreciation to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev for his steadfast support of Israel, calling the alliance between the two nations “deep and based on mutual trust, shared interests, and a strategic partnership.”
Symbolic Support at Eurovision
In a lighter moment, Minister Katz also referenced Azerbaijan’s symbolic gesture during the recent Eurovision Song Contest, where it awarded Israel a rare “double douze points.”
“The double douze points was much more than a score—it was a genuine expression of the friendship between our governments and our people,” Katz remarked.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Cooperation
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued defense collaboration and agreed to broaden the scope of future joint projects.
Participants in the meeting included:
- Amir Baram, Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Defense and former IDF Major General
- Maj. Gen. Oded Basiuk, Head of Operations Directorate
- Brig. Gen. Guy Markizano, Military Secretary to the Minister of Defense
- Col. Yigal Ostanovsky-Katz, Israel’s Defense Attaché to Azerbaijan
