Dim Amor

As enormous flames continue to rage in the Jerusalem area, the international community has proven that there is nothing like moments of crisis to reveal true friends. Ukraine, itself fighting a difficult war, was among the first countries to extend a hand to Israel in this time of distress.

Israel's ambassador to Ukraine, Michael Brodsky, announced on the evening of April 30 that a Ukrainian firefighting aircraft is expected to arrive in Israel as early as May 1. This is an exceptional gesture from a country that is itself under ongoing Russian attack, as demonstrated that very evening with another wave of Russian drone attacks on several Ukrainian cities.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized his country's willingness to assist through a post on the X network: "The Ukrainian government is ready to assist Israel in fighting the raging fires. We can send firefighting equipment, including a dedicated aircraft, as well as skilled rescue teams. Ukraine's Minister of Interior, Igor Klymenko, has forwarded the relevant proposal to the Israeli side. Even while dealing with aggression in our country, we are ready to assist others in saving human lives".

The Ukrainian gesture is part of a broad international effort led by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar.

On the X network, Sa'ar shared: "During the past few hours, I have conducted a series of telephone conversations with my colleagues from Argentina, France, Italy, Britain, Spain, Portugal, Czech Republic, Sweden, Croatia, Greece, Cyprus, Azerbaijan, and North Macedonia, requesting aerial assistance in dealing with the fires around Jerusalem. I thank all the countries that have already promised assistance in firefighting, and the countries that are currently examining our request with great willingness to help. Israel is fortunate to be surrounded by true friends who stand by its side in times of trouble. Our gratitude also goes to everyone who offers help".

Sa'ar's efforts have borne fruit, as Ukraine, Italy, Croatia, and Romania have already agreed to send firefighting aircraft to Israel starting tomorrow. Romania, in particular, has committed to dispatching two aircraft – one dedicated to firefighting and the second for logistical support. France, Ecuador, and other countries have also expressed willingness to extend help, including through helicopters and firefighting aircraft.

On April 30 at 18:54, a joint statement was issued by the Prime Minister's Office, the Ministry of National Security, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, detailing the assistance efforts: "Following an urgent operational need defined by the Fire and Rescue Commissioner, Prime Minister Netanyahu instructed the National Security Council to lead an international assistance effort with firefighting aircraft, in cooperation with the Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has approached countries in the close circle, including Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Italy, and Bulgaria".

The statement added that "The Ministry of National Security, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Fire Service are coordinating the reception of assistance according to an updated situation assessment. All relevant bodies are working to bring about the arrival of international assistance as soon as possible. Due to the limitations of firefighting aircraft in night flights, international assistance is expected to begin operating starting tomorrow".

Meanwhile, Israel's local aerial system is operating gradually according to capabilities, operational considerations, and availability. Already operating in the field are aircraft from the "Elad" squadron and Israeli Police helicopters, while the Air Force is preparing for immediate operational assistance.

The current crisis emphasizes the importance of strong international relations in times of distress. Particularly noteworthy is Ukraine's response, which despite the difficult war it itself is facing, chooses to extend a hand to Israel. This is how true friends behave, and only in difficult moments do we understand who is a friend and who is an enemy.

The diplomatic apparatus of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with Israeli embassies around the world, continues to work tirelessly to concentrate and bring international assistance as soon as possible. These efforts demonstrate the strength of Israeli diplomacy and the depth of international relations that Israel has cultivated over the years.

In these difficult moments, as fires threaten extensive areas around Jerusalem, international solidarity provides not only vital practical assistance but also significant moral strengthening for the State of Israel and the firefighting forces battling the flames. The extensive international assistance is expected to significantly enhance the ability to cope with the fires and minimize damage.

Photo: Ukraine's Ministry of Emergency Situations, in accordance with Section 27a of the Copyright Law