Israel Vows Ukraine Support, Citing Shared Iran Threat

In a significant diplomatic move, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has declared his country’s commitment to supporting Ukraine during a high-profile visit to Kyiv. Meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andriy Sybiha, Sa’ar announced the launch of a strategic dialogue focused on countering the threat posed by Iran, a development that has fueled speculation about a potential shift in Israel’s policy regarding military aid to Ukraine.

While Israel has previously maintained a more cautious public stance on the full-scale conflict that began in February 2022, Sa’ar’s statements in Kyiv struck a new, more forceful tone. “Israel strongly condemns Russia’s attacks on the civilian population. We call for a just and sustainable peace that will ensure Ukraine’s security,” he stated at a joint press conference. Drawing a parallel between the two nations’ experiences, Sa’ar added, “Israel is committed to supporting Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. We know what it means to be under fire—with children, with families.”

The establishment of a strategic dialogue centered on Iran is particularly noteworthy, given Tehran’s role as a key military ally to Moscow, supplying drones used in attacks against Ukrainian cities. This shared security concern has led observers to suggest that the collaboration could extend beyond diplomacy. Analysts speculate that following its own recent 12-day conflict with Iran, Israel may be looking to transfer older weaponry to Kyiv, thereby creating an opportunity to upgrade its own air defense systems with newer technology.

The issue of Israeli arms for Ukraine remains highly sensitive. Earlier confusion arose after Israel’s ambassador to Kyiv, Michael Brodsky, made comments about the transfer of Patriot missile defense systems. Officials later clarified the systems were being sent to the United States for modernization before any potential delivery to Ukraine, with Brodsky emphasizing that such matters are best discussed through confidential channels. This history underscores the delicate balance Israel navigates between supporting Ukraine, managing relations with Russia, and its own security imperatives.

Sa’ar’s visit also carried deep symbolic weight. Before the official talks, the ministers paid respects at the Wall of Remembrance for fallen defenders and the Holodomor Memorial. The Israeli foreign minister met with leaders of Ukraine’s Jewish community and was scheduled to visit the Babyn Yar Holocaust Memorial Center, reinforcing the historical and cultural ties between the two nations amidst the ongoing war.