Israel is reportedly considering transferring approximately 85,000 units of Russian- and Iranian-made weapons to Ukraine. This move would indicate a major policy shift, as Israel has maintained a neutral stance on military aid, preventing both direct weapons transfers and third-party re-exports. However, recent developments suggest a potential change in approach.
Reports suggest that observers have spotted American aircraft flying between Israel’s Hatzerim Airbase and Poland’s Rzeszow, a crucial logistics hub for arms deliveries to Ukraine. Additionally, since last autumn, Israel has been exploring the possibility of sending weapons seized from Hamas and Hezbollah to Ukrainian forces.
This move would serve multiple strategic objectives. Rather than allocating resources for weapons disposal, Israel could supply arms to a country in need while simultaneously retaliating against those who supplied them to terrorist organizations—mostly Russia and Iran.
Why Israel May Be Shifting Its Stance
A Strategic and Practical Decision
Israel has traditionally refrained from sending military aid to Ukraine due to its delicate relations with Russia. Moscow holds strong ties with Hezbollah and maintains a strategic alliance with Iran, a nation that openly seeks Israel’s destruction. However, recent geopolitical dynamics may be pushing Israel in a different direction.
Instead of destroying captured Russian and Iranian arms, Israel could use them to counter Russia’s military influence indirectly. By supplying Ukraine with weapons that originated from Russia and Iran, Israel sends a strong political message while ensuring that these arms do not return to enemy hands.
US Involvement in the Process
The United States has been a critical mediator in Israel’s defense decisions, particularly regarding Ukraine. American aircraft frequently transport military supplies, and evidence suggests that recent flights between Israel and Poland may have carried seized weaponry.
Additionally, discussions about Israel supplying Patriot missile systems to Ukraine, backed by US funding, highlight the growing involvement of Western allies in facilitating Israeli military aid. However, for now, the primary focus remains on the transfer of lighter weaponry such as small arms, anti-tank missiles, and grenade launchers.
Weapons Seized from Hamas and Hezbollah
The Scale of the Seizure
During military operations in southern Lebanon, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confiscated over 85,000 units of weapons, missiles, and military equipment from Hezbollah. These stockpiles consisted of:
- Multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS)
- Anti-aircraft weapons
- Large-calibre machine guns
- Anti-tank missile systems
- Grenade launchers and mortars
- Thousands of small arms and ammunition
Much of the seized equipment remains unused and in factory packaging, making it a valuable asset for potential redistribution.
Key Russian and Iranian Weapons Seized
Among the captured stockpiles, Israeli forces recovered Russian Kornet anti-tank guided missiles and Iranian Almas missiles. Military analysts suggest these could be among the first weapons provided to Ukraine. Given the nature of urban combat in Ukraine, these high-precision anti-tank missiles would be particularly effective against Russian armoured units and fortifications.
How This Move Impacts Russia, Iran, and Ukraine
A Blow to Russian and Iranian Influence
If Israel proceeds with this transfer, it would directly undermine Russia’s arms industry and weaken Iran’s influence in the region. Moscow has long supplied Hezbollah with advanced weaponry, and Iranian-backed militias frequently receive Russian-made arms. By sending these weapons to Ukraine, Israel essentially turns them against their original suppliers.
Moreover, this move reveals the scale of Russian and Iranian arms support for terrorist organisations. The fact that Israel captured 85,000 weapons, including factory-sealed missile systems, highlights the extent to which these countries have armed groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
A Boost for Ukraine’s Military
Ukraine has been in desperate need of weaponry, especially as Western arms supplies face logistical challenges. The potential transfer of Israeli-seized Russian and Iranian weapons could provide immediate reinforcements for Kyiv’s military forces.
Light weapons, such as assault rifles, machine guns, and anti-tank missiles, would significantly aid infantry units on the front lines. Ukrainian soldiers can rapidly deploy and use these weapons, unlike heavy equipment that requires training and logistics.
Potential Risks and Diplomatic Fallout
Russia’s Response
Russia has previously warned Israel against supplying arms to Ukraine. If this transfer takes place, Moscow could retaliate by strengthening ties with Iran or increasing military cooperation with Syria. Given that Russia operates air defense systems in Syria, where Israeli aircraft frequently conduct strikes against Iranian positions, there is a risk that Moscow could restrict Israel’s operational freedom in the region.
Escalation with Iran and Hezbollah
Iran has also been vocal in opposing Israeli military actions. If Israel arms Ukraine with Iranian-seized weapons, Tehran may respond by boosting arms shipments to Hezbollah, leading to further regional instability.
What Happens Next?
While reports indicate that Israel is evaluating the transfer of seized Russian and Iranian weapons to Ukraine, it remains uncertain whether the government will proceed with full-scale military aid. With US backing, this transfer could materialise in stages—starting with light arms and gradually expanding to advanced missile systems.
If confirmed, this decision would mark a major geopolitical shift and a clear rebuke to Russia’s support for terrorist organisations. For now, Israel’s defence policymakers will continue to assess the potential risks and benefits of this unprecedented move.
Conclusion
The potential transfer of 85,000 Russian and Iranian weapons from Israel to Ukraine represents a major strategic development. This move would allow Israel to dispose of captured weapons while assisting Ukraine and countering Russian and Iranian influence.
However, diplomatic risks remain, as Moscow and Tehran may respond with retaliatory measures. If executed carefully, this transfer could provide significant military aid to Ukraine while reinforcing Israel’s position as a key geopolitical player.
