Araz-2024: Azerbaijani, Iranian Special Forces Hold Tactical Drills Near Border
A joint tactical exercise named Araz-2024 is currently underway, showcasing the collaboration between special forces from Azerbaijan and Iran. This military drill took place near the village of Aşlanduz, situated within Iran's Ardabil province. The exercise is significant, being the first of its kind conducted jointly between the Azerbaijani Army's Ground Forces and those of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Before the drills commenced, key details such as the sequence and stages were established during a command and staff conference attended by notable officials from both nations' military structures. Following this preparatory meeting, the opening ceremony for Araz-2024 was conducted, followed by inspections of the drill site by the servicemen.
This multi-day exercise, running from November 4 to 7, signals a noteworthy step toward increased military cooperation, especially following diplomatic tensions between the two nations earlier this year. The objective revolves around strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing military readiness, and securing shared borders.
The IRGC's statement emphasized the exercise's purpose as not only focusing on combat readiness but also collaborating against organized illegal armed groups. It highlights the strategic importance of ensuring the security of common borders and improving the military capabilities of both forces.
Building on this cooperative spirit, just weeks before Araz-2024, another military exercise took place—the AZIREX-2024—focused on naval operations. This event, hosted by Iran, saw Azerbaijani naval forces actively participating off the coast of the Caspian Sea. This previous exercise involved ships performing rescue operations and ensuring the safety of maritime activities. Both drills aimed at enhancing the interoperability and readiness of forces from Azerbaijan and Iran.
The naval exercise AZIREX-2024 featured two Azerbaijani vessels alongside the Iranian destroyer Deylaman, under the theme of “Cooperation for Peace and Friendship.” The tasks accomplished included medical assistance for shipwreck victims and general safety operations during maritime incidents. The success of these exercises reflects the commitment from both nations to improving maritime cooperation and enhancing their capability to manage emergencies effectively.
Iran and Azerbaijan’s relationship encountered strains earlier this year due to various geopolitical factors, including the attack on the Azerbaijani embassy by a gunman—which resulted tragically. This incident led to Baku temporarily closing its embassy and evacuate staff from Tehran. Yet, amid this backdrop, the two nations have made strides toward normalizing their relations. Following extensive diplomatic negotiations, which included discussions on security and military cooperation, the Azerbaijani embassy reopened its doors this past July.
Both countries appear to be using these military exercises as platforms to fortify their partnership, aiming to combat regional threats and improve their defensive capabilities. Military experts perceive this trend as indicative of both nations' interests to stand united against common adversities. They view the Araz-2024 drills as paving the way for future collaborations, potentially impacting regional dynamics as both Azerbaijan and Iran navigate their paths amid fluctuated tensions.
The strategic significance of these joint exercises cannot be overstated as they signify more than just military coordination. They also serve as statements of intent to strengthen bilateral ties—essential for ensuring peace and stability within the region.
While the military drills themselves are tactical, their underlying significance is undeniably political. Events like Araz-2024 reflect both countries' focus on unity, promoting collaborative efforts to face potential security challenges. Observers from both military and diplomatic circles anticipate more exercises and cooperative agreements to emerge from these foundations, reshaping the military relations between Azerbaijan and Iran.
