Israel considers sending military support to South Sudan

The Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth claims that the Israeli government is looking at the possibility of sending military support to South Sudan. The unit would integrate with the activities of the United Nations in the country.

The newspaper reported that the Israeli Foreign Ministry and police service are giving serious consideration to the UN request for such support. The idea came up during a meeting between Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Danny Ayalon, and the Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations, Robert Orr, on Wednesday.

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A senior official in the Israeli Foreign Ministry commented, “Israel will send the military force under the condition that the safety of its members is guaranteed, and after making sure that the security situation in southern Sudan allows for this condition to exist.”

The official referred to the recent clashes between Sudan and South Sudan, adding, “The UN asked Israel to send its force as soon as possible.” He said that the consequences of sending a military unit are being considered.