Israel Calls for NATO Condemnation of Iran
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, attending the NATO summit in Washington, has urged the alliance to denounce Iran. During a series of meetings with foreign ministers, including a significant discussion with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, Katz emphasized the mutual threat posed by Iranian missiles and drones. He highlighted that these weapons, which menace Israel, are also being supplied to Russia, thus threatening NATO allies.
Katz stressed the necessity of imposing crippling sanctions on Iran and designating the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization. He argued for increased pressure to halt Iran's nuclear program, missile development, and support for terrorist groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Katz also pointed to American intelligence reports indicating Iran's involvement in social media incitement against Israel and the US.
Ukraine Seeks Enhanced NATO Support Amid Russian Aggression
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Washington ahead of the NATO summit, aiming to secure long-term support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Zelensky's agenda includes meetings with President Joe Biden and delivering a crucial speech to rally allied support. NATO allies have pledged significant announcements regarding Ukraine during the summit.
The Ukrainian leader's visit comes in the wake of a devastating Russian missile attack on Ukraine's largest children's hospital, killing over 30 people. This attack underscored the urgent need for continued military aid to Ukraine. Zelensky called for decisive actions, including the destruction of Russian fighter planes and missiles, to counter the ongoing terror.
The Biden Administration has recently allowed the use of US weapons for attacks on Russian territory, but Ukrainian officials are pushing for further policy expansions. They seek unrestricted access to advanced weapons, including F-16 fighter jets, to effectively counter Russian threats.
Ukraine also aims for clear progress towards NATO membership. Although last year's summit in Vilnius saw diplomatic tensions over this issue, there has been improved communication with Ukrainian officials this year. NATO's joint statement is expected to describe Ukraine's path to membership as 'irreversible,' with substantial commitments from the alliance.
- Katz conveyed his messages to several key officials, including the US Secretary of Defense, the Foreign Ministers of Germany, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Croatia, Georgia, and Romania, as well as the President of Kosovo. The Israeli Foreign Ministry is optimistic that their stance on Iran will be included in the final NATO statement.
- Zelensky's visit to Washington is strategically timed, following a brutal missile attack by Russia. Ukrainian officials argue that this attack highlights the need for NATO to provide more robust military support. They emphasize the importance of lifting any restrictions on the weapons supplied to Ukraine and ensuring a stable and predictable supply of these arms.
- The NATO summit is expected to make significant announcements regarding Ukraine's defense capabilities, including air defense systems and F-16 fighter jets. Ukrainian officials are also advocating for sanctions that would inflict severe economic pain on Russia, further weakening its ability to sustain the war.
