Israel's PM Netanyahu says he is willing to mediate in Russia-Ukraine war 'if asked'

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, has expressed his willingness to act as a mediator in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, stating that he is requested to do so by both nations and the United States. In an interview to CNN news, Israel's PM Netanyahu said that, “If asked by all relevant parties, I’ll certainly consider it, but I’m not pushing myself". According to a report from the Independent, he added that the timing and circumstances would have to be right.

He emphasised that the US asking him would be important because “you can’t have too many cooks in the kitchen". This comes at a time when Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that his administration, military and intelligence team are taking actions to counter Russia's plans to seek "revenge" against Ukraine. He stated in his nighttime address that "we are responding to Russia's preparations for a revenge attempt, which the occupier is planning". 

Israel is considering military aid to Ukraine

It is also worth highlighting that Netanyahu has stated that Israel is considering providing military aid to Ukraine, which would be quite the volte-face from Israel's earlier policy. It would include weapons such as the Iron Dome. In the interview with CNN, Netanyahu said "Well, I'm certainly looking into it". 

The war isn't showing any signs of slowing down and it is quite possible that within a few weeks from now, the intensity of the war will increase as spring arrives. The US is providing a significant increase in military aid to Ukraine, including over $2 billion worth of weapons and ammunition, according to two US officials familiar with the matter. This aid will include longer-range rockets for the first time, providing a boost to Ukraine's efforts in the conflict. The crucial thing to watch out for is if Israel does actually go ahead and provide Ukraine with military aid and what impact it has on Russia-Israel ties.