Israel Matzav

Why the Russians sold those cruise missiles to Syria

When Russia is being ignored, it makes sure to remind us that it possesses some influence – this time by sending advanced missiles to Syria despite American and Israeli objections.

It is impossible to bridge all the conflicts of interest between Israel and Russia, yet it will always be a mistake to ignore Russia in a blatant, insulting manner. The state of Iran’s nuclear program could have been different had the US agreed, back in 2004, to listen to Russian ideas instead of rejecting them disdainfully. Israel also erred at the time by not trying to prompt America to give Russia some due respect.

Now, just like then, we continue to anger the Russians for no reason. The Russians wish to be involved in Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, yet we responded aggressively. In the past, following the Annapolis summit, they offered to hold the next meeting in Moscow – yet Israel firmly objected.

Several months ago, Russian President Medvedev declared that it would be proper to get Hamas involved in the peace process. Israel quickly declared that it will not agree to it under any circumstances. But why is that so? Why didn’t we say: “We laud Russia for its efforts to convince Hamas to reject the path of terror and choose a political solution to the conflict”?

In short, an approach premised on offering respect and willingness to listen and consult before undertaking important moves does not require us to compromise on any important interest, yet minimizes the incentive of a state like Russia to ignore our interests.

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 9:29 AM