Russia-Israel Ties: Russian, Israeli defense ministers hold talks on Syria

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Russia and Israel's defense ministers have met to discuss Syria's plan to move its forces closer to the Israeli border. Israel is concerned that Iranian troops might take part in the operation - a situation that Israel warns it will not tolerate. CGTN's Dan Ashby has more.

DAN ASHBY MOSCOW "Russia wants to avoid any further conflict between Israel and Iran in Syria, which is why these high-level talks have taken place. Following the defense ministers' meeting in Tel Aviv, Israel reportedly expressed its appreciation for Moscow's understanding."

The Syrian government is planning to take full control of its southern area, but Israel's concern is that Iranians might assist them.

Israel and Iran are, of course, sworn enemies, and Israel has carried out missile strikes on Iranian positions in Syria before.

But Russia has intervened to say all foreign forces should be withdrawn from the border.

If Iran obeys, that should be enough to maintain relative stability and keep Israel content enough - for the time being. Dan Ashby, CGTN, Moscow."