What’s It About
Ukrainian Ambassador to Israel, Yevgen Korniychuk, expressed his frustration at Israel’s reluctance to collaborate with Ukraine in countering Iran-made drones. This comes after devastating drone attacks claimed the lives of Israeli soldiers, worrying both nations about the growing Iranian threat. Korniychuk has long signaled that the drone technology used by Russia and its allies like Hezbollah poses a threat that both Ukraine and Israel face.
Why It Matters
The global geopolitical landscape reveals intertwined threats, from Russia’s influence in Syria close to Israel’s borders to Iranian drones employed by Hezbollah and other groups. Israel’s security dynamics demand strategic alliances against shared threats, specifically Iranian proxies. By harnessing Ukraine’s experience and technological acumen against these drones, Israel could bolster its defenses, enhancing both nations’ security against an escalating threat.
The Big Picture
Since October 7, Israel has faced drone threats escalating throughout the conflict. Russian-backed actors like Hezbollah and the Houthis have successfully executed drone operations against Israel, bypassing defenses intended to protect its citizens and military bases. Ukraine has coped with similar drone threats since Russia’s 2022 invasion, providing insights into intercepting this technology. Closer cooperation might bring stronger mutually beneficial defense capabilities, addressing both nations’ ongoing security challenges.
What Ukraine is Suggesting
Ukraine offers military and technological collaboration to Israel against common adversaries, specifically focusing on defense against Iranian-manufactured drones. These weapons have dramatically underscored Iran’s indirect influence vis-à-vis its proxy groups. Ukraine’s capability to intercept a high percentage of Iranian drones demonstrates potential mutual gains, sharing advanced interception techniques with Israel, fostering stronger aerial defenses.
What to Watch
— The evolving Israeli stance on international collaboration in combating Iranian-affiliated groups.
— Tensions surrounding Israeli diplomatic relations, requiring a balance across its robust Western alliances and geographically close interactions with Russia-Kremlin’s shadow.
— New initiatives Israel might adopt in response to both Hezbollah-related incidents and increasing demands for more active measures, possibly through ochres of regional collaborations on cybersecurity, intelligence shared with Ukraine, optimizing aerial defenses sparing civilian areas.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.