Six men have been arrested on suspicion of being recruited by Iran to carry out a coup in Azerbaijan, according to the country's security services. The arrests were made in the capital, Baku, and other parts of the country. The suspects, all Azerbaijani nationals, were taken into custody on charges of plotting to overthrow the government.
The country's National Security Ministry said in a statement that the men had been recruited by Iran's intelligence services and were planning to carry out attacks on government buildings, security forces, and other key targets.
The arrests come at a time of heightened tension between Azerbaijan and Iran. The two countries have been at odds over a number of issues, including Azerbaijan's support for the United States and Israel.
Azerbaijan's government has accused Iran of meddling in its internal affairs and supporting separatist groups in the country's southern provinces.
Iran has denied the allegations and accused Azerbaijan of supporting terrorist groups operating in Iran's border regions.
The arrests are likely to further strain relations between the two countries, which have been tense since Azerbaijan's war with Armenia last year.
Azerbaijan has been keen to strengthen its ties with the United States and other Western countries, while Iran has been seeking to expand its influence in the region.
The government in Baku has vowed to take strong action against any attempts to destabilize the country, and the arrests of the six men are seen as a clear signal that it is willing to take a tough stance against any perceived threats to its security.
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