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Russia’s Intricate Diplomatic Maneuvering in the Israel-Hamas Conflict

by Madison Thomas
7 comments
Russia's Diplomatic Stance in Israel-Hamas Conflict

Russia finds itself in a precarious position in the Israel-Hamas conflict, advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities without attributing culpability to either side. This nuanced stance arises from Moscow’s historical relationships with Israel, the Palestinian territories, and other actors in the region. The Kremlin aims to bolster its influence in the Middle East by acting as a mediator.

Russia additionally seeks to frame the ongoing conflict as a manifestation of flawed American policy. Moscow anticipates that the conflict will divert Washington and its allies’ attention from continued military support for Ukraine.

Kremlin’s Messaging and Regional Relations

President Vladimir Putin ascribes the root of the conflict to the failure to establish a sovereign Palestinian state in compliance with United Nations resolutions, terming it a “gross injustice.” He points out that Israel’s settlement activities have further complicated the situation. Putin criticizes the United States for its inadequate peace-brokering efforts, accusing Washington of concentrating on economic incentives for the Palestinians while neglecting essential statehood concerns.

Putin has also urged both Israel and Hamas to refrain from targeting civilians, emphasizing the urgent need to terminate hostilities to avoid further escalation and its consequent risks.

Statements by President Putin and other Russian officials indicate Moscow’s endeavor to sustain amicable relations with both Israel and the Palestinians. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, underscored that Russia should maintain a “balanced approach” when engaging with both parties, thereby positioning itself as a potential mediator in the conflict.

Moreover, Russia hopes that the conflict will divert the United States and its allies from the Ukrainian war, potentially undermining Western backing for Kyiv.

Evolution of Moscow’s Middle East Policy

During the Cold War era, Russia, then the Soviet Union, was a robust supporter of the Palestinians and other Arab nations against Israel, providing military and political aid. However, the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the political chaos that followed led to a reduction in Moscow’s global influence.

Since ascending to power, President Putin has focused on reviving Russia’s Middle East alliances without alienating Israel. In 2015, Russia intervened militarily in Syria to support President Bashar Assad, in alliance with Iran, thereby consolidating its role in the Middle East.

Russia-Israel Relations: A Complex Tapestry

Post-Soviet Russia and Israel have deepened their economic, security, and diplomatic ties. More than a million people from Russia and other former Soviet territories have immigrated to Israel, significantly reinforcing bilateral relations.

Despite this, the relationship has had to navigate complex situations, such as Russia’s military presence in Syria and Putin’s actions in Ukraine. Israel has been cautious in its response, choosing not to supply arms to Ukraine while maintaining security channels with Moscow.

The Evolution of Russia-Palestinian Relations

Once a key supporter of the Palestinian cause, Russia saw a weakening of these ties after the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, under Putin, there has been a concerted effort to revive the relationship, with Moscow hosting multiple visits from Palestinian leaders, including those from Hamas.

Russia-Iran Cooperation and Other Alliances

In the aftermath of the Soviet collapse, Russia and Iran developed close ties, which were further solidified during the Syrian civil war. Iran has supplied Russia with drones used against Ukrainian infrastructure, in exchange for expected advanced weaponry from Moscow.

As part of its global strategy, Russia has also cultivated its relationship with Saudi Arabia, Iran’s primary regional adversary. Moscow’s diplomatic acumen has facilitated an OPEC+ deal with Riyadh, which has been beneficial for oil-producing nations.

In summary, Russia’s involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict is a complex blend of historical alliances, geopolitical ambitions, and carefully calibrated diplomacy. As Moscow seeks to enhance its influence in the Middle East, it must navigate a web of regional and international relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Russia’s Diplomatic Stance in Israel-Hamas Conflict

What is the main focus of the article?

The main focus of the article is to explore Russia’s nuanced diplomatic approach in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. It examines how Russia’s historical ties and geopolitical ambitions influence its stance and aims to be a mediator in the Middle East.

Why does Russia maintain a balanced approach in the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Russia aims to maintain good relations with both Israel and the Palestinians. This balanced approach enables Russia to position itself as a potential mediator in the conflict, thus aligning with its broader geopolitical ambitions in the Middle East.

How does the Kremlin view the United States’ role in the Israel-Hamas conflict?

The Kremlin sees the United States’ role as flawed, focusing primarily on economic incentives for the Palestinians while neglecting fundamental issues related to statehood. Moscow hopes that the conflict will divert Washington’s attention from other geopolitical issues, such as the Ukrainian conflict.

What historical relationships does Russia have with Israel and the Palestinians?

Historically, Russia has had deep-rooted ties with both Israel and the Palestinians. During the Cold War, Russia, then the Soviet Union, was a strong supporter of the Palestinians. In the post-Cold War era, it has maintained and expanded diplomatic, economic, and security ties with Israel.

How has Russia’s Middle East policy evolved over time?

Russia’s Middle East policy has undergone significant shifts. During the Cold War, it was an ally of the Palestinians and opposed Israel. Post-Cold War, Moscow sought to revive old Middle Eastern alliances while building new relationships, even intervening militarily in Syria to back President Bashar Assad.

What other alliances has Russia sought in the Middle East?

Apart from its relationship with Israel and the Palestinians, Russia has also strengthened its ties with Iran and has even cultivated a relationship with Saudi Arabia, despite their differing stances on Syria. Russia aims to broaden its global influence through these alliances.

How close are Russia and Israel today?

Russia and Israel share deep economic, diplomatic, and security ties. Over a million people from Russia and other parts of the former Soviet Union have moved to Israel, solidifying this relationship. Despite challenges, such as Russia’s military actions in Syria and Ukraine, both nations have managed to maintain a functional relationship.

How has the Israel-Hamas conflict impacted Russia’s policy towards Ukraine?

Russia hopes that the Israel-Hamas conflict will serve to distract the United States and its allies from the Ukrainian war, thereby potentially weakening Western support for Kyiv.

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7 comments

Mike_H October 13, 2023 - 6:06 am

why is Russia even involved? Don’t they have enough to deal with already? But hey, its politics I guess.

Reply
JohnDoe October 13, 2023 - 10:57 am

Wow, really in-depth analysis here. Never thought about Russia’s role in the Israel-Hamas situation this way. Kudos!

Reply
NancyW October 13, 2023 - 1:51 pm

This is seriously well-researched! Would love to see more articles like this that dig deep into geopolitical issues.

Reply
AlexP October 13, 2023 - 4:26 pm

Didn’t realize how deep the ties were between Russia and Israel, eye opener for sure.

Reply
Tim87 October 13, 2023 - 7:59 pm

im not surprised. Putin always has his own agenda. Would be interesting to see how this plays out.

Reply
RebeccaM October 13, 2023 - 10:40 pm

The historical context is really helpful. Helps to make sense of Russia’s current stance.

Reply
Samantha2020 October 14, 2023 - 3:20 am

interesting read! Russia is playing 4D chess for sure. Juggling relations in the middle east while eyeing Ukraine. That’s something.

Reply

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