Enemy’s enemy is a friend. That’s how Israel and Ukraine are coming together to counter Iran. At a press conference in Kyiv on Wednesday, Ukrainian foreign minister Andriy Sybiga called Iran an “existential threat” to global security. Standing beside him was Israeli foreign minister Gideon Saar — the highest-ranking Israeli official to visit Ukraine in two years. “Our countries face common security challenges,” said Sybiga. “Today we have decided to launch a separate dialogue on the Iranian threat.” The announcement comes against the backdrop of ongoing attacks on Ukraine using Iranian-made drones operated by Russian forces. Israel, on the other hand, has long accused Iran of trying to develop nuclear weapons, a charge Iran denies. The two have also recently been embroiled in direct conflict, with missiles fired by both sides. Saar thanked Ukraine for openly opposing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. He said that any step that limits Tehran’s access to weapons and technology strengthens the security of Europe and Ukraine. Although Ukraine had earlier criticised Israel for staying neutral in the Russia–Ukraine war, both nations now appear to be putting that aside. Kyiv has repeatedly accused Iran of supplying arms to Moscow. Just last month, Israel launched surprise airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites, a move that Ukraine openly supported. With this new dialogue, both countries seem ready to work more closely against their shared adversary.
