In a significant diplomatic statement, Vladimir Putin likened Israel’s actions in Gaza to the siege tactics employed by Nazi Germany, spotlighting a potential shift in Russia-Israel relations.
Quick Facts
- Vladimir Putin draws parallels between Israel’s Gaza blockade and the Nazi siege of Leningrad during World War II, noting the potential humanitarian consequences.
- Despite a historically close relationship between Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, these remarks might challenge the diplomatic ties between Russia and Israel.
- Following a large-scale terrorist attack by Hamas, Israel instructs over a million residents in northern Gaza to relocate, raising international humanitarian concerns.
During his recent visit to Kyrgyzstan, the Russian president Vladimir Putin delivered a stark comparison, associating Israel’s current blockade of Gaza with the tactics of Nazi Germany, particularly referencing the harrowing siege of Leningrad. The blockade, expected to be a precursor to a ground assault against Hamas, has been met with international concern, particularly considering the high concentration of troops Israel has stationed on the Gaza border.
Historically, Putin has enjoyed a warm rapport with Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s long-serving prime minister. This relationship has been bolstered by the migration of over a million individuals from Russia and other ex-Soviet states to Israel. The two nations have also maintained solid relations even when Israel targeted Iranian forces allied with Russia during operations in Syria. Yet, the backdrop of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine has tested this bond, with Netanyahu hesitant to aid Kyiv in order to maintain open channels with Moscow, primarily due to their collaborations in the Middle East.
These recent remarks from the Russian leader arrive at a sensitive time, as Israel grapples with an unexpected terrorist assault by Hamas which has resulted in significant casualties. This scenario further intensifies as Israel has issued a directive to over a million inhabitants in northern Gaza to shift to the southern parts within a day, a move which the UN has earnestly implored to be revoked on humanitarian grounds.
| For Further Reading | The Siege of Leningrad, spanning from September 1941 to January 1944, was one of the lengthiest and most destructive sieges in history and undeniably the costliest in terms of casualties. Nazi German forces besieged Leningrad (modern-day Saint Petersburg), with estimates suggesting that nearly 750,000 civilians might have died, mostly from starvation. This reference made by Putin serves as a potent reminder of the horrors of war and the dire consequences of prolonged blockades. |
Q&A
Why did Putin compare Israel’s actions to the Nazi siege of Leningrad?
Putin’s comparison aims to highlight the severe humanitarian implications of blockades and sieges, referencing a historical event that had dire consequences for civilian populations.
How might these remarks affect Russia-Israel relations?
Given the historical warm ties between Putin and Netanyahu, such statements might introduce tensions or strains in the diplomatic relations between the two nations.
What has been the international response to Israel’s directive in Gaza?
The international community, particularly the UN, has expressed grave concerns, urging Israel to revoke the relocation directive to prevent exacerbating an already critical humanitarian situation.
Original article source: DNyuz