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Israel eyes political repercussions should Russia shut down Jewish Agency

Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid instructed the country’s Foreign Ministry on Saturday to prepare a series of political measures against Russia to be implemented in the event it liquidates the Russian branch of the Jewish Agency, a non-profit organization that promotes immigration to Israel.

Although Moscow gave no reason for shuttering the agency’s offices, officials have said it is possibly due to Israel’s stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

Lawmakers met on Saturday to discuss the matter, during which some even suggested that Jerusalem should change its policy on the war altogether. Nevertheless, others stressed the approach should not only be “sticks,” but also “carrots.” 

An Israeli delegation that was supposed to travel to Moscow on Saturday to try to intercede with Russian authorities did not depart as planned as Russia had not yet confirmed their visas, according to an Israeli diplomatic source. 

Lapid, who also serves as foreign minister, is expected to examine the series of possible measures and make a decision in the coming days. 

Read More: JNS