The conflict in the Middle East has escalated as Azerbaijan reported Iranian drone strikes on its Nakhchivan exclave, injuring civilians. President Ilham Aliyev condemned the attacks, labeling them as acts of terror, and demanded accountability from Iran. The situation is complicated by the presence of a significant ethnic Azerbaijani population in Iran, which Tehran views as a potential threat to its unity. Tensions have been exacerbated by Azerbaijan's military successes and its close ties with Israel, which Iran perceives as a threat. Despite both nations denying intentions for escalation, the rhetoric from Aliyev suggests a shift in Azerbaijan's stance towards Iranian Azerbaijanis, potentially complicating the geopolitical landscape. Teljes cikk (bbc.com europe)