Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said today that Israel will join the UN General Assembly resolution condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Israel has a moral responsibility to both condemn Russia and give humanitarian assistance, said Lapid, adding that “Israel was and is on the right side of history.” He noted that three planes will leave Israel for Ukraine today and tomorrow with humanitarian aid.

Reports in Israel over the past few days have noted that Jerusalem was uncomfortable with formally speaking out against the Russian invasion. Lapid did condemn the Russian attack on Ukraine Feb. 24, but Prime Minister Naftali Bennett did not follow up with a condemnation of his own. Despite a request from the United States to co-sponsor a UN Security Council resolution condemning Russia’s actions, Israel refrained from doing so. As UN procedures enable members to back resolution drafts submitted to the council without being a member, 81 countries agreed to cosponsor the American resolution against Russia.

Having walked a fine line between Washington and Moscow, Bennett nonetheless said in yesterday evening's security cabinet meeting that Israel will vote in favor of the US proposal expected today that will call for a cease-fire and condemn Russia. His statement was echoed today by Lapid. Israeli experts feel that an Israeli vote in favor of condemning won’t lead to a diplomatic confrontation with Russia if Israel maintains relative neutrality.

Bennett also spoke extensively on humanitarian aid, stating that Israel will send 100 tons of supplies to Ukraine. Speaking at the weekly cabinet meeting, Bennett said the aid will include water purification kits, medical supplies, tents, blankets, sleeping bags and other survival equipment needed by a displaced civilian population.