The embassy called attempts to accuse Russia of supporting terrorism unacceptable

Attempts to accuse Russia of supporting terrorism against the background of the visit of representatives of the Palestinian group Hamas to Moscow are unacceptable. This is stated in the commentary of the Russian Embassy in Israel.

“Russia’s contacts and actions in the Middle East region and in international organizations are focused primarily on the immediate release of hostages in the Gaza Strip, as well as resolving issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from its territory,” – said in the message.

The embassy emphasized the consistency and immutability of Russia’s position. Russia condemns terrorism, including the killing of civilians and hostage-taking, the diplomatic mission said. At the same time, diplomats emphasized the unacceptability of violence against civilians, “no matter what side they are on.” The embassy noted that the main thing is to achieve a ceasefire.

On October 26, representatives of the Palestinian group Hamas arrived on a visit to Moscow. Later at the Russian Foreign Ministry reportedthat during the visit of Hamas Politburo member Abu Marzouk, the release of foreigners from the group’s captivity was discussed, as well as issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave.

The Kremlin emphasized that all contacts are planned only through the Foreign Ministry. Hamas representatives in Moscow do not have a “Kremlin program,” they added. Press Secretary of the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Peskov notedthat Russia considers it necessary to maintain contacts with all parties to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry reacted sharply to the news of the arrival of Hamas representatives in Moscow. There demanded “immediately expel” them from Russia and called inviting Hamas to Russia an “undignified step.”

The situation in the Middle East escalated on the morning of October 7, when the Palestinian group Hamas began military operations against Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) responded by launching Operation Iron Swords, striking hundreds of Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government announced that the country had entered a state of war.

During the fighting, according to the latest data, about 8,500 people were killed, including 23 Russians. October 26, Russian Ambassador to Israel Anatoly Viktorov reportedthat three Russians are being held hostage by Hamas, and six more are listed as missing.