Netanyahu Halts Armenian Genocide Recognition in Israel Amid Complex Political Pressures

The Israeli government's decision not to bring a formal recognition of the Armenian genocide to a Knesset vote has sparked political controversy. Initial media reports claimed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blocked the move due to direct pressure from Azerbaijan. However, insiders reveal a more nuanced scenario involving multiple actors behind the decision.

According to a report in Haaretz, Hikmat Hajiyev, senior political advisor to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, contacted Netanyahu's office, leading to the removal of the issue from the Knesset agenda. A source suggested Netanyahu acted without coordinating with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, who had submitted the government-approved resolution.

Contrary to these reports, Jewish community leaders in Azerbaijan and political sources involved in talks with ultra-Orthodox parties in Israel say no senior Azerbaijani officials intervened after the government's approval. Instead, the main factor was appeals from Azerbaijani Jewish community leaders to Knesset factions, especially Shas and United Torah Judaism. These appeals were personal and communal, expressing concern that recognition could harm the Jewish community's security and Israel-Azerbaijan strategic relations.

The Jewish community in Azerbaijan enjoys religious freedom and respectful treatment, and Azerbaijan is considered Israel's most Muslim-friendly country. The ultra-Orthodox parties, key coalition members, reportedly conveyed their reservations and reconsidered supporting the Knesset vote, influencing the political process. Although Sa'ar submitted the resolution and the government unanimously approved it on June 28, the parliamentary vote was postponed and never took place before the session ended.

Netanyahu voted in favor of the government resolution, raising questions about claims he opposed it from the start. Sa'ar denied Netanyahu undermined him but did not fully explain the vote's delay. The episode highlights the complex interplay of diplomatic, communal, and political factors shaping Israeli decision-making on sensitive foreign policy issues.