Qasem Soleimani: Is He a Hero for Azerbaijan?

The Controversial Figure

Qasem Soleimani, the former commander of the Quds Force of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), is a polarizing figure in international politics. Some view him as a hero for his role in various regional conflicts, while others see him as a bloody killer. One of the countries where his legacy and influence remain a subject of debate is Azerbaijan.

Recent statements suggest that Azerbaijan, an independent secular country with a pro-Israel stance and tensions with regional powers, may not consider Soleimani a hero. This article delves into the reasons behind this perception.

Did Soleimani Contribute to Azerbaijan's Progress?

The argument is often made that Soleimani's actions did not contribute to Azerbaijan's progress and development. As an independent nation with a peaceful relationship with its neighbors, Azerbaijan does not require military aid to resolve internal issues. The Karabakh conflict is a case in point, where Azerbaijan sought to reclaim territories from Armenian militias with its own military assistance.

The Karabakh Dispute

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

The Nagorno-Karabakh dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a complex issue that continues to impact regional stability. While some argue that Soleimani provided support for Azerbaijan during this conflict, there is no clear evidence that his actions significantly influenced Azerbaijan's military operations or resolved the dispute.

Public Perception in Azerbaijan

For the majority of Azerbaijanis, events in Syria and Iraq, where Soleimani was more active, are not well-known. Azerbaijan's public opinion is shaped by its own regional dynamics and allegiances, rather than external military interventions. Proponents of Shi'ite Islam might have some support for the general, but the general public is generally indifferent.

Azerbaijan's Secular Stance and Pro-Israel Views

Azerbaijan is a secular state with strong ties to Israel, a stance that puts it at odds with countries like Iran, which it considers a potential threat. This geopolitical alignment further underscores the likelihood that Azerbaijan is unlikely to view Soleimani as a hero.

Global Perception

Notably, Soleimani is not viewed as a hero in Turkey, another neighboring country. His reputation in the region is largely shaped by his ties to Iran and his role in supporting pro-Iran factions. There are only a few groups, particularly those aligned with the Iranian regime or pro-Shi'ite movements, who might have a positive view of Soleimani.

Conclusion

While Qasem Soleimani's legacy remains controversial, the evidence suggests that he is not perceived as a hero in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan's independent stance, support for Israel, and complex regional dynamics make it unlikely that the country would consider him a hero. His actions, while significant in other contexts, did not have a direct and substantial impact on Azerbaijan's internal affairs or regional stability.

This article aims to provide a balanced and informed perspective on the debate surrounding Soleimani's legacy in Azerbaijan and beyond.