Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said he understands Moscow's accusations of involvement in the Russian Il-20 crash, but reiterated that the responsibility for the incident lies on the Syrian militaries.
“We also expressed our condolences in connection with the death of 15 officers of the Russian army in this plane, shot down by the Syrians. I spoke with the Russian Minister of Defense. Naturally, one can understand their attitude at this time,” Lieberman said on air.
Israeli Delegation to Travel to Moscow to Share Information on Il-20 Plane Crash
“I agree that … it was a tragic accident, but the army of [Syrian President Bashar] Assad is responsible for it,” the minister added.
In the radio interview with radio station Galei Tzahal, Lieberman emphasized that Israel has no alternative but to continue operations in Syria to counter Iran's military presence and the transfer of modern weapons to the Hezbollah movement in Lebanon.
“We will do everything necessary to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens,” he added.
The minister did not answer the question of what to do if Russia, in response to the crash of the Il-20, corrects the existing coordination arrangements in Syria and takes measures that restrict the freedom of action of the Israeli Air Force in this country.
“We have told Russians that we are ready to provide all information and data. The commander of the Israeli Air…
