How Israel helped Azerbaijan uncover Iran’s plot to attack Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline

Israel and Azerbaijan Disrupt Iranian Plot Targeting Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan Pipeline

Baku, Azerbaijan – Israeli intelligence agencies, alongside Azerbaijan’s State Security Service (SSS), successfully dismantled a network linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in March 2026. The operation, detailed in a joint statement, aimed to prevent a series of planned attacks targeting critical infrastructure and strategic locations within Azerbaijan. According to the SSS, the IRGC’s Khorasan branch was preparing an attack on the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline, a vital energy route.

The planned operation also included targeting the Israeli embassy in Baku, members of the Mountain Jewish religious community, and an Ashkenazi synagogue. Authorities seized approximately 7.73kg of C-4 explosive during the operation, discovered at a wellness complex in Baku. Eight Azerbaijani citizens and four Iranian citizens were detained.

Several individuals have been sentenced to prison, while investigations continue. Key figures implicated include Rahman Moghadam, head of Unit 4000 within the IRGC, who was reportedly killed in joint Israeli-US operations, and Majid Khademi, a senior IRGC intelligence official. The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion” by Israeli sources, was revealed after a six-week delay.

Israeli intelligence agencies, including Mossad, Shin Bet, and the Israel Defense Forces, stated that the network was actively targeting Israeli and Western military objectives. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev condemned the alleged actions as a “terrorist act.” Iran has denied involvement. This operation highlights ongoing security concerns and cooperation between Israel and Azerbaijan in countering regional threats.

Israeli officials confirmed continued collaboration with international partners to prevent similar incidents.

Topics: #azerbaijan #israel #iran