(VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE)

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has arrived in Russia for his meeting with President Vladimir Putin. The meeting took place in Sochi, Russia.

PM Netanyahu thanked his host and the fact both nations maintain good relations. He praised Putin’s decision to assist WWII veterans and made a point of stating “We never forget the role the Russian army played in defeating the Nazis. We said this in all places, most recently in Knesset…This was the initiative for the establishment of the monument in Netanya, which you personally inaugurated, in memory of Russian Army forces that fell…Iran is continuing efforts to establish itself in Syria, resulting in a threat to Israel, the region, and in my opinion, to the entire world. Practically speaking, Iran already rules in Lebanon. Mr. President there is an international effort against ISIS and this most welcome. What is not welcome is Iran is in places ISIS is not and Iran speaks daily of the destruction of Israel…”

Prior to leaving Jerusalem, Mr. Netanyahu made a statement explaining the purpose of this visit is to reach an understanding with Russia regarding the growing Iranian threat in Syria and Lebanon.

In Sochi with President Putin. Israel opposes Iran’s entrenchment in Syria & will defend itself in any way against this threat & any threat. pic.twitter.com/s4ftRY15jw

— Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) August 23, 2017

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)