Foreign Policy magazine reported in an exclusive piece this week that Israel has purchased an Azeri airfield on Iran's northern border, prompting the United States to watch very closely. Journalist Mark Perry wrote the Obama administration is monitoring Israel's relations with Azerbaijan, particularly its military ties.
| Yet another move by the honourable Obama administration to demonstrate its love and care for the nation of the juices. The most brilliant administration ever, indeed. |
In particular, the $1.6 billion Israeli deal to jointly manufacture 60 drones of various types with Azerbaijan infuriated Turkey, according to a retired U.S. diplomat quoted in the report. The IDF canceled a $150 million contract to develop and manufacture drones with the Turkish military after Ankara demanded an apology following the Mavi Marmara flotilla attempt to breach Israel's maritime blockade of Gaza.
"The Israelis have bought an airfield," an official told the journalist, "and the airfield is called Azerbaijan."
The Americans believe Israel may use the site as a springboard for an attack on Iran's nuclear plants, or as a landing and refueling spot following one. The site could also be used for aircraft needed for search, rescue and recovery in the wake of an attack.
"We're watching what Israel is doing in Azerbaijan. And we're not happy about it," an official told the Foreign Policy writer.
| See above about brilliance. |
| So the sneaky Jooooz need Champ less than Champ thought they did? Oh, that explains the hissy fit... |
| It wasn't an MBA Prime Minister Netanyahu got from MIT, it was the more technical and demanding MSc (Business Management). It's no wonder our beleaguered, beloved president can't keep up. |