[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Chun-hee] Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on the 31st (local time) that he is considering military aid to Ukraine, which is being invaded by Russia.
In an interview broadcast on CNN that day, Prime Minister Netanyahu responded to a question about whether Israel could provide military aid to Ukraine, including Israel's low-altitude air defense system 'Iron Dome,' by saying, "We are clearly looking into this." So far, Israel has kept its distance from military support, having publicly refused Ukraine's request last year for military assistance such as air defense systems.
Netanyahu also expressed willingness to mediate between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States if requested. He explained that after Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year, he was asked to act as an unofficial mediator but declined at the time because he was not the prime minister but a member of the opposition party. He added, "I know there is a right time and the right circumstances," and "If that happens, I will definitely consider it."
Netanyahu also confirmed that the United States recently sent stockpiled ammunition from Israel to Ukraine. He said, "The United States took a large amount of Israeli ammunition and transferred it to Ukraine."
Netanyahu's remarks came after a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who visited Israel the previous day. At that time, Secretary Blinken said Israel should strengthen support for Ukraine, stating, "Ukraine needs support because it is bravely defending its people and right to survive."
However, in the interview, Netanyahu also mentioned that while the war in Ukraine has "monumental significance," Israel faces pressing issues such as the Palestinian matter.
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