Ambassador Gideon Lustig outlines Israel’s position on the Middle East conflict and highlights deepening ties with Tashkent:
Israel’s ambassador to Uzbekistan, Gideon Lustig, has set out his country’s position on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East in an interview with Uzbek outlet Qalampir.uz, pointing to the role of Iran and stressing that ties with Uzbekistan remain stable.
Lustig said the escalation began after the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, and later expanded to involve other non-state actors, including Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthi movement. He described the situation as a multi-front challenge for Israel.
The ambassador identified Iran as a central factor in the conflict, saying Tehran supports armed groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah and exerts influence across the region. He added that a significant share of attacks is linked to that support.
On military operations, Lustig reiterated Israel does not seek to target civilians and takes steps to limit casualties. He noted that operations may be halted if there is a risk to non-combatants.
He also addressed the information environment surrounding the conflict, warning about the spread of false reports on social media, including claims about the destruction of Israeli cities and the death of political leaders. He urged audiences to rely on verified information.
Lustig commented on slogans circulating in support of one side of the conflict, saying some carry political implications and should be viewed with caution.
Asked about Israel’s goals, he said the country aims to ensure its security and remove existing threats, while also expressing concern over Iran’s nuclear program.
The ambassador dismissed claims circulating online about alleged expansionist ambitions, saying such claims do not reflect official Israeli policy.
Turning to relations with Uzbekistan, Lustig said cooperation between the two countries continues despite the regional tensions. He pointed to growing trade volumes and an increase in Israeli tourists visiting Uzbekistan.
He also referred to historical ties, noting that Uzbekistan hosted Jewish refugees during World War II, and said Israel remains grateful for that support. The Bukharian Jewish community, he added, continues to serve as a cultural bridge between the two countries.
Lustig said Israel is interested in further strengthening cooperation with Uzbekistan in economic, cultural and humanitarian areas.
By Rafael Sattarov