The Israeli Times reported on the outcome of the Israeli prime minister’s visit to Russia: “Putin and Bennett decided to maintain a so-called non-conflict mechanism that would allow Israel to continue its attacks on Syria without a Russian response,” Says Ze’ev Elkin, who was present at the Sochi talks.
Housing Minister Ze’ev Elkin, who accompanied Bennett as a translator and consultant on the trip, said the talks focused on maintaining the relationship between the two governments. According to him, the talks included ensuring that the two governments continue to work to prevent a conflict in Syria. Elkin said “very extensive” talks on the situation in Syria were aimed at “maintaining the coordination mechanism” between the two governments.
“The prime minister presented his views on ways to halt Tehran’s nuclear program and Iran’s establishment in Syria,” he said in a statement. Elkin continued that it was decided to keep the issues with Russia (regarding air strikes on Syrian territory) in place.
“Russia is a very important player in our region, a kind of neighbor in the north,” Bennett said after meeting with Putin, referring to Russia’s military presence in Syria. “Thus, our relationship with Russia is strategic, but almost daily, and we must maintain this direct and cordial dialogue,” Bennett wrote in a Facebook post.
Israeli military analysts on both Channel 12 and 13 said on Friday that during the meeting, Putin agreed that Israel should maintain its freedom of action in Syria, but called for information about the attacks before they took place.
