This morning I read a very interesting piece about Israel buying/renting/whatever old Soviet airbases in Azerbaijan . . . presumably to be used in an air campaign against Iran.
Now of course everyone has already denied it. But I encourage you to read the article over at Foreign Policy. The logic for Israel to acquire such airbases seems sound: Israel needs to carry as many bombs and as few extra gas tanks on their fighters to be able to make the 2,200 mile trip . . . and that's just one way.
The obvious way to shorten that distance is to land in Azerbaijan, or at least have helicopter recon units stationed their in anticipation of a strike.
Now, keep in mind that Azerbaijan is a Muslim country with strong cultural ties to Iran. But the ruling family of Azerbaijan is so corrupt that one could hardly call themselves allied with "Islamic interests" or anything that would cause one to pause over them dealing with Israel.
This whole thing is about arming Azerbaijan for a looming "next war" with Armenia over disputed regions, and providing them deterrence against Iranian meddling with their internal affairs. Then it's about Israel improving its tactical capabilities vis-a-vis an Iranian strike.
Winners: Israel, Azerbaijan.
Looser: Iran, Armenia
PS - I'd also add the US and Turkey to the looser list because of the regional war that is likely to break out if Iran is attacked. The US will undoubtedly get sucked in.
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