Defense Minister Israel Katz met in Tel Aviv today with Azerbaijani counterpart Zakir Hasanov to strengthen bilateral security cooperation, the Defense Ministry says in a statement.

Axar.az reports, citing the Times of Israel, during the meeting, Katz praised the deep strategic alliance between the two countries, citing shared interests and mutual trust. He thanked Hasanov for Azerbaijan’s support following Hamas’s October 7 massacre and its efforts to mediate between Israel and Turkiye.

Katz also highlights Azerbaijan’s Eurovision votes, which awarded Israel the maximum number of points, calling it a true sign of friendship between the two governments and peoples.

According to the statement, the two sides agree to expand defense cooperation.

Security ties with Azerbaijan are considered a key strategic interest for Israel given the Caspian nation’s proximity to Iran.