Israel’s Involvement with the war on Ukraine

By Daniel Shapiro ’23
    After months of proclaimed neutrality, Israel has taken a stand against Russia in the Russo-Ukrainian War. Prime Minister Naftali Bennet is reportedly communicating with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an effort to help mediate an end to the conflict, while Israel has been sending supplies and defense gear to support Ukrainian refugees and soldiers.

In an address to the Knesset on March 20th, President Zelenskyy said, “One can keep asking why we cannot get weapons from you. Or why Israel has not imposed strong sanctions against Russia. Why does it not put pressure on Russian business? But it is up to you, dear brothers and sisters, to choose the answer. And you will have to live with this answer, people of Israel.”
    Just five days after Zelenskyy’s address, on March 25th, 2022, Israel opened a field hospital in western Ukraine to aid civilians in the area, and on April 20th, Defense Minister Benny Gantz announced that Israel would be sending helmets and flak jackets to the Ukranian’s emergency services. 
Junior Julian Duberstein remarked, “Israel’s humanitarian aid to Ukraine seems like more of a PR ploy to save face. Naftali Bennet’s refusal to provide military support to an ally’s annihilation is an affront; although it is a valid refrain, as their own safety comes first.”
Freshman Shayne Cytrynbaum comments, “Although Israel should have helped sooner, I am glad that they finally have taken action for what is right. I hope that they continue to contribute to the allied effort to curb Russia’s aggression in the future.”  
Following Israel’s apparent policy shift with the contribution of military gear, on April 26th, Israeli delegates attended a summit led by the United States discussing sending more arms to assist Ukraine in defending against Russian attacks.
Due to immense external and internal pressure, Israel is now faced with difficult decisions regarding its involvement in the war.