Moscow and Jerusalem

Officially the Soviet Union and Israel have had no diplomatic contact since the Six-Day War in 1967. But unofficially, starting last November, at least six meetings have been held in Switzerland, Israel and Italy between representatives of the two countries. The purpose of the meetings, begun at the request of the Russians, is to seek grounds on which formal relations can be resumed.

The Russians have a number of reasons for talking to Israel. They want neither another Middle East war nor confrontation with the U.S., and communication with Israel is one way to help avoid either. They also feel disadvantaged because Washington is still represented in both Cairo and Jerusalem. And they want the Suez Canal reopened; apparently they hope that the offer of better relations with Moscow might persuade Israel to pull back troops from the canal.

Presumably to demonstrate good faith, the Russians have been careful to avoid any clashes over Sinai between Egypt-based, Soviet-flown MIGs and Israeli jets. They also coordinated talks that were held in Europe during the past three months between Israeli and Egyptian diplomats over reopening of the canal. The discussions proved unproductive.

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