Uncertainty surrounding the Gaza peacekeeping mission continues

This week, a number of public statements have been made in diplomatic circles regarding Azerbaijan’s possible participation in an international peacekeeping operation in Gaza. In an interview published on 22 December 2025, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz told well-known American journalist Hugh Hewitt that several countries, including Azerbaijan, ‘signed up’ as participants in the Gaza operation.

However, the same day Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on foreign policy affairs, made remarks in the interview with Japan’s Nikkei  publication, clarifying that no decision has yet been taken regarding Azerbaijan’s potential participation. Questions remain concerning the possible parameters of the operation, including, its mandate, security risks, and the rules of engagement.

Apparently, the primary concern for countries that may take part in the operation is the unequivocal establishment of a robust ceasefire in Gaza and the minimization of security risks to forces that would be deployed. As contacts continue between Hamas and Israel, with Egypt acting as mediator on a number of unresolved issues, states are, for the time being, reluctant to announce final decisions on joining the operation.

In addition, it cannot be ruled out that Israel’s opposition to the possible participation of Türkiye in Gaza mission - Azerbaijan’s ally and long-standing partner in peacekeeping operations - creates additional sensitivity for Azerbaijan.

It appears that Azerbaijan continues to weigh the potential benefits that participation could bring to its relations with the United States against the political and security risks such involvement might entail.

The Daily Baku editorial office