Question: Can you confirm reports of the arrests of individuals on suspicion of plotting attacks on the U.S. and Israeli embassies in Baku? Can the U.S. provide detail on the identity of those arrested?
Answer: Azerbaijani authorities have announced the arrest of a number of individuals since the start of this year for allegedly plotting attacks against foreign interests in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijani authorities have alleged ties between those arrested and the Iranian Government.
For years, we have seen the Iranian Government use violence to advance its own political agenda, and considering it is the principal state-sponsor of terrorism, it would come as no surprise that it would engage in such efforts.
We are appreciative of our cooperation with the Government of Azerbaijan and we continue to work closely with Azerbaijani authorities to provide for the safety and security of our embassy and personnel in Baku.
