Following a significant meeting between Israeli and Ukrainian officials, Kyiv welcomed the news that a proposal for the transfer of Soviet-era weapons held by Israeli forces will be debated in the Knesset (Israel’s legislative body). If approved, this move would mark a major step in strengthening ties between the two nations, both currently engaged in their respective armed conflicts. The weapons under consideration include a diverse array of arms seized by the Israel Defense Forces during operations in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, with which the Ukrainian Armed Forces are already familiar.

The meeting in question took place yesterday, attended by Israel’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sharren Haskel, and the Ukrainian ambassador to Israel, Yevgen Korniychuk. According to official statements from the Ukrainian embassy following the meeting: “This initiative would represent an important step in recognizing the common threats faced by both countries. The Ukrainian side expressed its hope that a positive solution to this issue will be found.”

This development is significant, as reports from Israel indicate that approximately 60% of the seized weaponry is of Soviet origin, primarily consisting of infantry weapons. Among the items in storage are Dragunov sniper rifles, SPG-9 recoilless guns, and Kornet anti-tank missiles. Additionally, stockpiles include various batches of 81 mm mortar rounds, 107 mm rockets, and Toophan anti-tank munitions.

During the meeting, both parties also discussed the common threat posed by the Islamic Republic of Iran, which is seen as a backer of terrorist groups operating near Israel and as a supplier of weaponry to Russia’s war effort in Ukraine. Iran’s involvement reportedly includes the delivery of ballistic missiles and various types of drones. This cooperation was further cemented by the signing of a new comprehensive strategic agreement between Russia and Iran on January 17.

The agreement, which spans 20 years with the possibility of extension every five years, covers multiple sectors, including defense. It outlines the periodic exchange of military delegations, training programs for personnel from both countries, naval port visits, joint naval exercises, and participation in international defense exhibitions.

In the words of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian: “Of course, in all areas where we can help each other, whether in the military or security domains, we will actively develop cooperation. We must work together so that the enemy cannot easily invade us, destroy us, and walk away. The enemy must not have any illusions that it can handle us effortlessly.”

Images used for illustrative purposes.

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