In a significant move, Israel has proposed sending Russian weapons it seized in Lebanon to Ukraine. This suggestion was made during a meeting held on January 21 between Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister and Ukraine’s Ambassador to Israel. The weapons in question were captured by Israel in Lebanon, a region where Israel has been actively involved in military operations.
Seized Russian Weapons in Lebanon
The weapons seized by Israel were originally provided by Russia to various armed groups in Lebanon, particularly Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran. Hezbollah has been involved in various conflicts, including ongoing tensions with Israel. Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon aims to weaken Hezbollah and prevent any further threats from the group. The Russian-made weapons, including drones and missiles, were seized as part of this effort.
The Deputy Foreign Minister of Israel, in her meeting with the Ukrainian Ambassador, suggested that these Russian weapons be transferred to Ukraine. This proposal comes at a time when Ukraine is in the midst of a major conflict with Russia, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Ukrainian Ambassador showed support for the idea, thanking Israel for recognizing the common threats that both Ukraine and Israel face.
Military Cooperation Between Russia and Iran
The discussion also focused on the growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran. Both countries have recently strengthened their relationship, signing a strategic partnership agreement on January 17. This cooperation has led to the transfer of military equipment, including drones and short-range ballistic missiles, from Iran to Russia. These weapons have been used by Russia in attacks on Ukrainian cities, causing significant damage.
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The close ties between Russia and Iran have raised concerns for Israel as well. Iran’s backing of Hezbollah in Lebanon and its support of Russia’s actions in Ukraine pose a security risk for Israel. This makes the transfer of seized Russian weapons to Ukraine a move that Israel sees as helping to counteract this growing alliance between Iran and Russia.
During the meeting, the Ukrainian Ambassador thanked Israel for considering the transfer of the Russian weapons. He highlighted the importance of recognizing the shared security threats faced by both countries. Ukraine is currently fighting to defend its sovereignty against Russia, while Israel is dealing with ongoing threats from Hezbollah and other militant groups in the region. The weapons transfer proposal is seen as a way for Israel to show solidarity with Ukraine in its struggle.
Ukraine has also shown its support for Israel in the past. After a deadly attack on Israel by Hamas militants in October 2023, Ukraine expressed its solidarity with Israel. This mutual support between the two nations has laid the foundation for closer cooperation, especially in military matters.
Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister emphasized that sending the seized Russian weapons to Ukraine would be a practical way to combat the shared threats both countries face. Ukraine, in turn, expressed hope that the proposal would lead to stronger cooperation and a positive outcome for both nations.
While the situation remains fluid, the proposal marks a significant development in Israel-Ukraine relations. It highlights the ways in which global security concerns can lead countries to collaborate on military matters, even in areas far from their borders.
