Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by multiple countries, including the United States, the European Union, Israel, and others. The group has been involved in acts of violence and terrorism against Israel.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry on Sunday called in the Russian ambassador to express concern about Moscow’s stance during the conflict between Israel and Hamas. They raised objections to Russia’s engagement with Hamas, suggesting that it gives legitimacy to acts of terrorism against Israel.
Simona Halperin, Deputy Director of the Foreign Ministry’s Euro-Asia Division, met with Russia’s envoy, Anatoly Viktorov, to convey Israel’s serious concerns. Israel expressed dissatisfaction with Russia’s failure to issue a clear and unequivocal condemnation of Hamas. They also raised questions about Russia’s behavior in international forums.
This action was taken in response to Russia’s hosting of Hamas representatives in Moscow for talks with its Deputy Foreign Minister. The conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted following a devastating attack by Hamas in Israeli territory, resulting in casualties and the abduction of over 1,400 people, with 239 individuals still being held captive in Gaza. Hamas is designated
Hosting Hamas leaders who are directly responsible for the murderous terror attack on October 7, the kidnapping of hostages and with the blood of over 1,400 Israelis on their hands, sends a message of legitimacy for terror against Israel,” Halperin told Viktorov.
Last Thursday, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov held talks with Hamas figures in a meeting that was also attended by Ali Bagheri Kani, the deputy foreign minister of the terror group’s chief sponsor, Iran.