Defense Minister Yoav Gallant recently disclosed that Israel, in collaboration with international intelligence agencies, has successfully prevented over 50 planned attacks targeting Jewish and Israeli communities worldwide. These operations, attributed to Iran, were reportedly in advanced stages and neutralized just before execution. Gallant, speaking during a visit to Baku, Azerbaijan, asserted that Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is directing an extensive terrorist campaign against Israelis and Jews globally.

Gallant's visit to Azerbaijan centered on bolstering strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts to address shared security concerns, particularly the fight against terrorism, which he described as a destabilizing force in the region. Meetings with President Ilham Aliyev focused on enhancing cooperation across security, economic, technological, and regional stability initiatives. Gallant acknowledged Azerbaijan's commitment to the growing bilateral relationship, highlighted by the recent opening of the Azerbaijani embassy in Israel.

The visit coincided with the arrest of an Afghan national in Azerbaijan suspected of plotting an attack on the Israeli embassy. Azerbaijani authorities, who had been monitoring the suspect's movements since his entry via Iran, apprehended him near the embassy. The individual is currently undergoing investigation.

The two-decade strategic alliance between Israel and Azerbaijan includes significant arms sales from Israel to Baku. In exchange, Azerbaijan reportedly provides Israel with oil resources and strategic access related to Iran. This recent visit by Gallant follows trips by Foreign Minister Eli Cohen in April and President Isaac Herzog in May, further underscoring the strengthening ties between the two nations.