According to a Maariv report quoting foreign sources, during their meeting before Shavuos in Russia, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu hinted to President Vladimir Putin missiles sent to Syria would be eliminated before becoming operational.

The report adds that Putin’s aides who were present for the meeting were shocked at the Israeli prime minister’s brazenness. According to those present, who leaked information to the media, Putin was not surprised by statements made to the media recently by National Security Advisor Yaakov Amidror, stating the advanced S-300 anti-aircraft system will not be permitted to go operational. Amidror explained Israel cannot and will not permit such a situation and action will be taken before the system is set up.

Putin reportedly told Netanyahu that for as long as Assad rules, there is no need for concern since he will not permit the weapons to fall in the hands of Israel’s enemies.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)