Tel Aviv, May 20 -- Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz hosted his Azerbaijani counterpart, Col.- Gen. Zakir Hasanov, in Tel Aviv on Monday, emphasizing the growing security and diplomatic partnership between the two countries.

Katz hailed the alliance as a "deep and strategic relationship," citing Azerbaijan's support following the Hamas-led Oct. 7 massacre and its behind-the-scenes mediation between Israel and Turkey. "Azerbaijan has proven time and again to be a true friend," Katz said.

The meeting comes just weeks after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu postponed a visit to Baku due to the ongoing war in Gaza. It also follows Israeli efforts to deconflict with Turkey in Syria. Netanyahu has called for the demilitarization of southe...