ISRAEL, THE CAUCASUS AND CENTRAL ASIA

Since the end of the Cold War, Israel’s relations with the Caucasus and Central Asia have been the subject of intrigue. Both regions are rarely a priority for Western powers. Further, several states in the Caucasus and Central Asia have Muslim majorities. Yet, Israel allegedly cultivated deep security and political ties that have outpaced Jerusalem’s outreach elsewhere. This chapter assesses these claims, by unpacking Israel’s local foreign relations. It demonstrates that Israel is not the regional powerhouse that some commentators claim it to be. Despite some initial successes, Israel does not prioritize either region today, beyond its ties to Azerbaijan.