Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly considered reaching out to Vladimir Putin in a last-ditch effort to persuade Iran to halt a missile attack on Israel, according to Russian media sources. Netanyahu’s attempt to initiate a conversation with Putin came just hours before Iran launched a significant barrage of 200 ballistic missiles targeting Israeli cities. Russian news agencies suggested that the goal of this proposed discussion was to urge Putin to exert pressure on Iran to prevent the impending attack. However, the Israeli government did not confirm these reports, while the Kremlin stated that the conversation did not occur.
This alleged request highlights the shifting dynamics of global politics, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the renewed conflict in the Middle East. These events have redefined traditional alliances and contributed to the formation of an “Axis of Evil” consisting of Russia, Iran, and North Korea, standing in opposition to Ukraine and the U.S.-led Western coalition.
With both Russia and Iran increasingly isolated from Western nations, Putin is believed to have gained greater influence over the Iranian regime. In contrast, relations between Putin and Netanyahu appear to have soured. Historically, Russia was viewed as a friendly nation to Israel. During his 2019 re-election campaign, Netanyahu highlighted his close relationship with Putin, even featuring posters of himself alongside the Russian leader. The two nations collaborated to mitigate the threat posed by Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria after Russia’s intervention in the Syrian civil war began in 2015.
However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 marked a turning point, forcing countries to reevaluate their allegiances. Pro-Kremlin propaganda channels on Telegram have since claimed that the Kremlin will not criticize Iran for its missile strikes against Israel, asserting that the escalation in the Middle East originated from Israeli actions and that Israel is responsible for resolving the situation.
For Israel, it presents a complex dilemma to pivot away from its historical partnership with Russia toward a stronger alignment with the U.S., which has traditionally been Israel’s main ally. Meanwhile, the Kremlin seems to have made a more straightforward choice. The influx of thousands of Russian refugees to Israel in 2022—fleeing Putin’s repression—has strained relations, leading the Kremlin to mock these individuals in the wake of the devastating October 7 attacks that resulted in significant casualties.
Over the past year, the Kremlin has engaged with Hamas delegations and provided missile support to Iran’s Houthi allies in Yemen, actions that have alarmed Israeli officials who feel betrayed by Russia. Israeli historian Semoin Goldin criticized Putin’s lack of condemnation for attacks on Israel, labeling it a “foul betrayal” and asserting that Russia has aligned itself with the aggressor in the conflict.
In its need for military support and allies, the Kremlin has deepened its ties with Iran, which has been a diplomatic partner for years and a military ally since Russia’s involvement in Syria. This relationship has involved Russia supplying oil, food, and technical assistance to Iran in exchange for weaponry.
Despite the apparent breakdown in traditional alliances, Netanyahu and Putin’s discussions still reflect a form of realpolitik. However, Israel’s options for seeking influence over Iran are limited. Azerbaijan, a predominantly Muslim country that maintains a rare alliance with Israel, could potentially serve as an intermediary. Azerbaijan has imported advanced Israeli military technology in exchange for oil and gas, using these assets to secure victories over Armenia in recent conflicts.
Despite Azerbaijan’s frosty relationship with Iran, there have been no indications that Israel has sought Azerbaijan’s assistance in persuading Iran to cease its missile attacks. This situation underscores the complexities of geopolitical alliances in a rapidly changing global landscape.
