Israeli neutrality on Russia will undermine US ties

Significance

Israel has been reluctant to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. To ward off international criticism, including from pro-Israeli US politicians, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett tried to position himself as a mediator. That effort has receded as Turkey has emerged as the more effective mediator, even hosting a round of peace talks.

Impacts

• Israel reportedly faces an influx 100,000-300,000 Jewish immigrants from Russia and Ukraine.
• A fresh election could return Binyamin Netanyahu to power in another coalition government.
• The longer the war lasts, the greater the pressure will be for Israel to choose between Washington and Moscow.