Russia denounces Israel Air Force activity over Syria

The statement was released while an Israeli delegation led by the commander of the IAF Maj.-Gen Amikam Norkin was en route to meet with his counterparts in Moscow.

SEPTEMBER 20, 2018 16:40

Updated: SEPTEMBER 20, 2018 17:59

Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin, current Air Force commander, and Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel, his predecessor (photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) — Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin, current Air Force commander, and Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel, his predecessor

(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

The Russian Foreign Minister used sharp words to denounce Israel Air Force activity in Syria in response to the downing of a Russian jet by Syrian anti-aircraft weapon systems.

"Moscow views the Israeli attack in Syria as irresponsible which exposed the Ilyushin aircraft to danger and lead to the deaths of 15 crew members. Russia will take all necessary measures to eliminate threats to our security and military in their fight against terrorism," the Russian Foreign Minister wrote on twitter.

Moscow views as irresponsible and unfriendly actions of Israeli Air Force,which exposed Russian Il-20 aircraft to danger and lead to death of 15 servicemen.Russia would take all necessary measures to eliminate threat to life and security of our military fighting against terrorism pic.twitter.com/aEgFQhikIk
— Russia in Israel (@israel_mid_ru) September 20, 2018

The statement was released while an Israeli delegation led by the commander of the IAF Maj.-Gen Amikam Norkin was en route to meet with his counterparts in Moscow.

The Israeli delegation is expected to present photographic intelligence relating to the event, including preoperation photos, proof of Iranian attempts to transfer strategic weapons to Hezbollah and establish its positions in Syria, and the Israeli findings after the investigation.

Translated by Jonathan Rosen.