Armenia and Israel’s Fraught Relationship: A Complex Tapestry

The relationship between Armenia and Israel is one of both historical affinity and modern discord, deeply intertwined with the complexities of regional geopolitics and shared historical traumas. While both nations have much in common—ranging from their experiences of genocide to their struggles for sovereignty—their diplomatic ties are frequently tested by contemporary challenges and regional alliances.

Historical Foundations: Shared Struggles, Divergent Paths

Armenians and Jews share a profound historical connection through their experiences of persecution. The Armenian Genocide during World War I [https://www.armenian-genocide.org/genocide.html] and the Holocaust during World War II left deep scars on their respective peoples. These atrocities are central to their national identities and the establishment of modern Armenia (1918) and Israel (1948).

Despite this shared history, Israel’s reluctance to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide has been a source of friction. Critics attribute this stance to Israel’s strategic alliances, particularly with Turkey, which strongly opposes such recognition. Turkey’s influence extends beyond this issue, as its close relationship with Azerbaijan and historical antagonism toward Armenia shape Israel’s regional calculations. For Armenians, Israel’s position feels like a betrayal, particularly given the parallels between the genocides that the two peoples endured.

Modern Diplomacy: Tensions Over Nagorno-Karabakh

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, Armenia-Israel ties have been marked by cautious engagement, often overshadowed by Israel’s military ties with Azerbaijan. Israel’s arms sales to Azerbaijan, a key adversary of Armenia in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, have strained relations. These sales, amounting to billions of dollars, are underpinned by Israel’s strategic interests, including access to Azerbaijani energy resources and countering Iranian influence in the region.

From Armenia’s perspective, Israel’s military support for Azerbaijan is perceived as complicity in aggression, particularly during the 2020 conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, which resulted in significant Armenian territorial losses. The Armenian public’s perception of betrayal further complicates efforts to improve bilateral ties.

Geopolitical Dynamics: Shifting Alliances and Strategic Interests

Armenia’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan reflects a pivot toward the West, including closer ties with the United States and the European Union. This shift seeks to reduce Armenia’s dependence on Russia and Iran, historically its key allies. While this realignment offers potential avenues for cooperation with Israel, it also risks antagonizing Azerbaijan and complicating Armenia’s delicate geopolitical balancing act.

Energy security plays a significant role in shaping Israel’s regional strategy. Azerbaijan is a critical supplier of energy to Israel, and this relationship strengthens their bilateral ties. Armenia’s efforts to normalize relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan, through potential peace deals, could alter this dynamic, potentially reducing tensions with Israel if new economic and energy alignments emerge.

Russia’s role in the South Caucasus further complicates Armenia-Israel relations. As Armenia’s traditional security guarantor, Russia has often shaped its foreign policy priorities. At the same time, Israel’s pragmatic relationship with Russia—especially regarding Syria and Iran—adds another layer of complexity to the trilateral dynamics involving Armenia.

Iran, a mutual adversary of Israel and Azerbaijan, also influences Armenia-Israel ties. Armenia’s historically cordial relations with Iran are based on geographic proximity and economic necessity. However, as Armenia deepens its relations with Western powers, its stance on Iran could shift, potentially aligning more closely with Israel’s regional security concerns. This realignment would require careful navigation to avoid exacerbating tensions with Tehran.

The Palestinian Question and Broader Implications

Armenia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood in June 2024 added another layer of tension. Israel’s sharp response, summoning the Armenian ambassador, underscores the sensitivity of this issue. Armenia’s decision aligns with its advocacy for international law and humanitarian principles, but it also risks alienating Israel at a time when regional alliances are already under strain.

Domestic Politics and Diaspora Influence

The Armenian diaspora, particularly in the United States, plays a significant role in shaping Armenia’s foreign policy and could influence its relationship with Israel. Similarly, Israel’s domestic political dynamics and public sentiment towards Armenia are shaped by its strategic priorities in the South Caucasus. Addressing these internal factors could be key to fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

Opportunities for Reconciliation: Shared Values Amid Conflict

Despite these challenges, there are reasons for optimism. Both Armenia and Israel have demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity and share values rooted in historical survival and cultural preservation. Cultural connections, such as the Armenian community’s historical presence in Jerusalem and ongoing ties in Israel, offer a pathway for mutual respect.

Armenia and Israel could also leverage their shared histories to promote cultural or educational exchanges. Initiatives that focus on historical empathy, such as joint memorials or academic collaborations, could help build bridges and reduce tensions. Additionally, if Armenia’s peace agreements with Turkey and Azerbaijan succeed, they may pave the way for a more stable partnership with Israel through new economic and energy alignments.

Conclusion: Navigating a Complex Future

The relationship between Armenia and Israel is emblematic of the challenges small nations face in a geopolitically charged world. While shared historical experiences could foster solidarity, contemporary realities—ranging from arms sales and regional alliances to recognition of historical events—continue to drive a wedge between the two nations.

The future of Armenia-Israel relations will depend on their ability to reconcile historical grievances with contemporary strategic imperatives. Whether through mutual respect for their shared histories or pragmatic cooperation in the face of regional threats, both nations have much to gain from fostering a more balanced and constructive partnership.