Israel Faces Backlash Over UN Vote Against Resolution Condemning Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

In the past two days, Israel has faced significant criticism after voting alongside the United States against a United Nations resolution condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The resolution was part of ongoing international efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions, but Israel’s alignment with the U.S. has sparked controversy and backlash both at home and abroad.

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar defended Israel’s vote, explaining that it was a strategic move aimed at supporting the United States' broader efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Saar emphasized that Israel still views Russia as the aggressor in the conflict. He further clarified that while the vote might seem controversial, Israel’s stance on the war had not changed, and it was a decision aimed at advancing peace efforts.

Criticism and Controversy

Bret Stephens, a New York Times columnist known for his support of Israel, condemned the vote as “vomitous,” while California Democrat Rep. Eric Swalwell joined others in describing the vote as a part of a new “Axis of Evil” alongside countries like North Korea, Belarus, and Hungary, who also voted “no” on the resolution.

In Israel, the criticism has been compounded by ongoing domestic concerns, including the funeral of Israeli victims of Hamas attacks and the release of Israeli hostages. However, some liberal activists, including former lawmaker Ksenia Svetlova, have taken to social media to express their dismay, with Svetlova accusing Israel of losing its moral compass.

Israel’s Strategic Position on Ukraine

Historically, Israel has balanced its support for Ukraine with the need to maintain relations with Russia, especially given Russia’s military presence in Syria near Israel’s northern border. However, Saar’s remarks suggest that Israel’s vote was more aligned with U.S. efforts to bring an end to the war through peaceful negotiation.

“We voted with the Americans, and I do believe that Russia is the aggressor,” Saar said. He added that while Israel had not changed its view on the conflict, it felt it was important to give America’s diplomatic efforts a chance to end the war and reach a peaceful solution.

Tensions With Russia and U.S. Diplomatic Shifts

Israel’s vote comes amid shifting U.S. policies on Ukraine. Under the Biden administration, U.S. support for Ukraine has been substantial, but the Trump administration had been less supportive, even as it began to foster closer ties with Russia. This change in U.S. policy has played a significant role in shaping Israel’s recent stance, as it seeks to align itself with its most important ally.

At the same time, Israel is working closely with the U.S. on high-stakes peace negotiations related to its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. With the current ceasefire agreement nearing its expiration, discussions are ongoing about extending the terms and resolving the situation. This delicate balance between managing relations with Russia, the U.S., and its own national security interests in Gaza remains a key challenge for Israel.