Azerbaijan expresses concern over Israel’s remarks on 'Armenian genocide' issue

Azerbaijan expresses concern over Israel’s remarks on 'Armenian genocide' issue
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses concern over the Israeli government’s decision, in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 29 June 2026.
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Azerbaijan has criticised Israel’s recent decision to recognise the 1915 events involving Armenians as genocide, warning against politicising historical narratives. The response comes after Israel’s cabinet approved the proposal, which still requires parliamentary ratification.

In a statement, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry said that distorting historical facts surrounding the events of 1915 and turning complex historical processes into political decisions without legal or academic grounding is unacceptable.

“Such actions do not contribute to reconciliation or mutual understanding. Instead, they deepen existing divisions and undermine efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region. We call on the Israeli government to reconsider this decision,” the statement said.

The ministry also stressed that Azerbaijan remains committed to preserving historical accuracy and supporting initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable peace and stability in the South Caucasus.

Israel’s decision sparks regional reaction

The comments came after the Israeli cabinet unanimously approved a proposal on 28 June, 2026, put forward by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar to recognise the mass killings of Armenians during World War I as genocide.

Sa’ar described the move as a moral and historical obligation, pointing to extensive documentation and what he called ongoing denial campaigns, particularly by Türkiye.

The decision is widely seen as a diplomatic signal amid strained Israel-Türkiye relations, although it still requires parliamentary approval.

Türkiye rejects Israeli move

Türkiye has also strongly criticised Israel’s decision, saying it is an attempt to “cover up its own crimes” through a politically motivated interpretation of historical events. The Foreign Ministry said Israel’s move disregards legal and historical facts.

Separately, Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş said ending Israel’s actions would be essential not only for Palestinian stability but also for global peace.

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