Russia's Stance on Israel-Palestine Conflict Raises Concerns

Russia has expressed "concern" but refrained from condemning the recent Hamas attack on Israel, instead referring to it as a "spiral of violence" and blaming the West. The carefully worded reaction reflects Russia's complex diplomatic approach, seeking ties with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause and courting groups like Hamas. The statements also highlight how Russia's war in Ukraine influences its foreign policy, as it relies on Iran for drones used in the conflict. Some Russian politicians and pundits see the attack as beneficial for Russia, distracting Ukraine's Western backers. Moscow's relationship with Hamas has been developing for over a decade, while its ties with Israel have deteriorated.