Azerbaijan Security: BTC Pipeline, Iran Border

On March 24, a freight train carrying Russian fertilizers to Armenia departed from the Bilajari station in Baku's Binagadi district. The US Embassy in the Sabail district remains closed for Novruz until March 25. Heydar Aliyev Airport in Bina continues enhanced security protocols through March 30. On March 20, meat prices rose by 2 AZN in Baku's Yasamal, Binagadi, and Qaradag districts. On March 22, a demonstration of national standard time began in central Baku. On March 20, 186 Bangladeshi nationals evacuated from Iran departed Baku for Dhaka. Outside Baku, US President Donald Trump postponed planned military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure by five days on March 23. This followed a March 22 ultimatum demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours. Iran threatened to completely close the strait if the US attacks its power plants. Expected heavy rain in Baku has not yet materialized. Forecasts predict 13.5mm of rain on March 27. Trump's 5-day extension expires on March 28. This delays potential airspace closures. The US Embassy is expected to reopen on March 25. Baku-based personnel should maintain a low profile in the Sabail district. Avoid the US Embassy area until it reopens. Prepare for potential supply chain disruptions if the Strait of Hormuz closes.

Source citations available for customers. Source available to subscribers