As tension between Iran and Israel continues to mount, Israel is seeking to further strengthen ties with its neighbors in the Caucasus and Central Asia. This is a strategic move to ensure that Iran’s influence in the region is limited. Israel has long been a strong ally of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia, with the three countries sharing a common interest in countering Iranian aggression. In recent years, Israel has also sought to improve its ties with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The Caucasus and Central Asia are key regions for Israel to focus on as Iran has been actively seeking to expand its influence. Iran has sought to build relationships with many of the countries in the region, using economic and military aid as leverage. In response, Israel has sought to increase its ties with the region’s countries, providing economic and military assistance, as well as investing in infrastructure projects. This has included agreements with Kazakhstan on the development of the Caspian Sea, and investment in a gas pipeline between Azerbaijan and Turkey. In addition, Israel has sought to increase its influence by investing in the region’s technology and defense industries. This has included the establishment of several Israeli defense companies in the region, as well as the provision of training and support to the countries’ armed forces. Finally, Israel has sought to increase its diplomatic presence in the region. This has included the opening of several Israeli embassies in the region, as well as the appointment of an ambassador to Armenia. Israel’s increased presence in the Caucasus and Central Asia is an important step in ensuring that Iran’s influence in the region is kept in check. It is also a sign of Israel’s commitment to strengthening ties with its neighbors, and furthering its own strategic interests.