In this episode of Haaretz Weekly, leading Israeli analysts and experts discuss one year of the war in Ukraine from an Israeli perspective. The conversation was recorded as part of the Haaretz-UCLA 2023 conference on Israel and the New World (Dis)Orderand is now presented in an audio version for our listeners to enjoy.
Efraim Halevy, the former chief executive of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, recalls his first ever meeting with Vladimir Putin, and explains why it would be humiliating for the Russian autocracy to beg Iran for help in its disastrous war on Ukraine.
Ksenia Svetlovaformer Israeli lawyer, discussing the similarities between Putin and prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Our national security analyses Amos Harel she tells what israeli intelligence did in the early stages of the war, and Israeli journalist Yair Navot, former Moscow correspondent, describes the dilemmas of the Jews left in Russia.
How does Israel’s relationship with Russia impact its diplomatic strategy regarding the Ukraine conflict?
Interview: Analyzing the War in Ukraine from an Israeli Viewpoint
Editor, Time.news: Welcome too Time.news! Today, we’re exploring the one-year mark of the war in Ukraine through a lens that is often overlooked: the israeli perspective. Joining me is Efraim Halevy, former chief executive of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, along with Ksenia Svetlova, a former Israeli lawyer, and Amos Harel, a national security analyst. thank you all for being here!
Q: Efraim, can you share your insights from your first meeting with Vladimir Putin and elaborate on the current implications for Israel?
efraim Halevy: Absolutely. My initial meeting with Putin was striking; his charisma and control were evident. Now, considering the war in Ukraine, it is indeed crucial to understand that it would be quite humiliating for the Russian regime to solicit assistance from Iran in its failing military efforts. This reliance reflects a troubling position for any power, especially a nuclear nation like Russia. For Israel, this creates a complex web of international relationships that we must navigate carefully since it affects our North and East fronts significantly.
Q: Ksenia, your recent discussions highlight the parallels between Putin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Can you elaborate on these similarities?
Ksenia Svetlova: Certainly! Both leaders possess a profound understanding of the political landscape within their respective countries. They exhibit strong control over their narratives and leverage populism to maintain power. Moreover, both face significant pressures domestically—Netanyahu with ongoing legal battles and Putin amidst widespread discontent over the war. These dynamics shape not only their strategies but also our national security frameworks, where Israeli intelligence played a key role early on in the war, identifying threats and opportunities.
Q: Amos, can you provide us with an overview of Israeli intelligence’s early response to the war in ukraine? What were the key considerations?
Amos Harel: israeli intelligence was swift in recognizing the potential for global destabilization stemming from the conflict. In the early stages,we focused on understanding the motivations of both Russia and Ukraine,while also assessing the regional implications in the Middle East. We aimed to protect Israeli interests, especially with Russia’s influence in Syria and Iran’s role in supporting Moscow. Essentially,our priority was to maintain operational freedom in the region amidst these evolving dynamics.
Q: Yair, as a former Moscow correspondent, what can you share about the struggles faced by the Jewish community in Russia amidst the ongoing conflict?
Yair Navot: The Jewish community in Russia is grappling with fear and uncertainty. As the war progressed, there was a notable rise in anti-Western sentiment, which unfortunately extended to Jewish individuals. Many are torn between their heritage and the increasingly nationalist sentiments prevalent in society. This puts a strain on their identities and leads to difficult decisions about remaining in Russia or seeking refuge elsewhere. The situation is delicate, and the community is looking for support from abroad, including Israel.
Q: As we wrap up, what practical advice can you offer our readers to better understand these complex international dynamics?
Efraim Halevy: It’s crucial for readers to stay informed about the shifting geopolitical landscape. Engage with various perspectives to understand the implications of the war on global alliances. Understanding the role of intelligence and diplomacy is vital in deciphering these events.
Ksenia Svetlova: I would encourage readers to critically analyze the narratives presented by mainstream media. Recognizing the shared human stories on both sides of the conflict can foster empathy and a broader understanding of the regional implications.
Amos Harel: Context is key. pay attention to the historical relationships and the motivations behind governmental actions. The dynamics at play are influenced by long-standing political histories, both in Israel and globally.
Yair Navot: lastly, advocate for awareness and support for vulnerable communities, like the Jewish population in Russia. solidarity can make a significant difference in providing them with safety and stability.
Editor, Time.news: Thank you, Efraim, Ksenia, Amos, and Yair, for your valuable insights. Your expertise sheds light on a critical aspect of this ongoing conflict, enriching our understanding of the broader implications for Israel and the world.