Israel and Ukraine Unite Against Iran

KYIV, Ukraine — Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar met with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha in Kyiv on Wednesday for a high-level diplomatic visit focused on bilateral ties, regional security, and cooperation against Iran. At a joint press conference, Sa’ar publicly thanked Ukraine’s leadership for formally designating Uman, the burial site of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, as a Ukrainian national heritage site.

“Thank you for recognizing Uman as a heritage site,” Sa’ar told Sybiha. “It is the resting place of Rabbi Nachman, and this recognition is deeply meaningful to the Jewish people.”

Sa’ar noted the strong bond between Israel and Ukraine, stating, “Both our nations are enduring difficult times, yet we are strong, and our friendship is resilient. We will continue to deepen our cooperation and stand by each other. I look forward to welcoming you soon in Jerusalem, our eternal capital.”

Support for Ukraine Amid War

Sa’ar expressed solidarity with Ukraine as it continues to face Russian aggression:

“Ukraine has been at war with Russia for more than three years. The recent weeks have been especially painful, with heavy attacks and civilian casualties. That’s why I felt it was important to come to Kyiv now. Our hearts are with the families who lost loved ones. Our prayers are with the wounded.”

The foreign minister emphasized Israel’s humanitarian support since the start of the war:

“Israel stands with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people,” Sa’ar declared.

Shared Opposition to Iran

Turning to Israel’s recent military operations, Sa’ar referenced Operation Rising Lion, a joint Israeli-American offensive that dealt a major blow to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs:

“We struck hard at Iran’s nuclear project - destroying infrastructure, eliminating key operatives, and severely degrading its ballistic missile capabilities and drone supply lines. The same Iranian drone technology is being used against Ukraine.”

Sa’ar called on the international community to act decisively:

“Iran must not be allowed to pursue nuclear weapons or continue sponsoring terror. I urge the E3 nations - Germany, France, and the UK - to immediately trigger the snapback sanctions mechanism.”

He also thanked President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukraine’s government for their strong stance against Iran:

“Your presidential order imposing sanctions on Iranian figures and your condemnations of Iran’s actions show moral clarity. Thank you for standing with Israel and the free world.”