‘Israel’ attempts to expand influence in Central Asia: Reports

The Caucasus and Central Asia have emerged as critical arenas in a renewed Cold War, where “Israel” is attempting to counter Iran’s influence. As reported by the National Interest, this conflict forms part of a broader struggle between the Western bloc, led by the United States, and the Eurasian bloc, led by China, Russia, and Iran.

While the war in Gaza intensifies, with multiple fronts involving Lebanon, Yemen, and Iran, both “Israel” and Iran are also expanding their influence in the Caucasus and Central Asia. Iran has fortified its alliance with Azerbaijan and deepened its connections with Central Asian countries, whereas “Israel” is strengthening its ties with Armenia and solidifying its presence in Central Asia.

Central Asian nations depend heavily on Iran’s Bandar Abbas port on the Persian Gulf for exporting much of their fossil fuels.

Turkey, serving as a geopolitical pivot, is navigating between Western and Eurasian spheres of influence.

Although Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has endorsed Ukraine’s NATO membership and Sweden’s accession, Turkey’s position on “Israel” has become more aligned with Iran and Russia since October 7. Turkey has hosted Hamas leaders, suggested taking military action, and considered halting trade with the occupying force.

Historically, Russia has dominated the Caucasus and Central Asia, viewing these regions as part of its sphere of influence even after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

However, recent shifts are evident: Georgia is enhancing its relations with Europe and China, Armenia is deepening its connections with Iran, and Azerbaijan is aligning more closely with Turkey. Iran is also pursuing infrastructure projects to link it to Georgia’s Black Sea ports, and both Armenia and Georgia are strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia.

In response to these shifting dynamics, “Israel” has been working to expand its presence in these regions, exploiting the weakening Russian influence. Meanwhile, Iran’s robust economic position continues to play a significant role in the region.

Middle East Crisis Stemming from US Pursuit of Regional Dominance: Russia

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has stated that the current tensions and escalating situation in the Middle East are a result of the United States’ ambition to maintain its dominant influence in the region.

Zakharova remarked, “In many ways, the current dramatic situation has become a consequence of the United States’ desire to maintain its dominant influence in the Middle East.”

She criticized Washington for its attempt to “monopolize the mediation role” amid “Israel’s” ongoing actions in Gaza, stressing its concern about preserving the status quo and promoting “economic peace” in the region. Meanwhile, the US is disregarding the need for a long-term, permanent ceasefire based on decisions from the UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council, which is further contributing to the rising tensions.

Zakharova warned that the increase of US military personnel in the Middle East could lead to further escalation in the region, with Russia urging restraint to avoid worsening the situation.