Russia and post-Netanyahu Israel will seek continuity

Significance

Both countries have worked to mitigate the inherent contradictions and risks of escalation. The Kremlin is seeking more influence in the Middle East, and Israel will have to decide how to accommodate itself to this.

Impacts

• Opaque commentary will help both sides gloss over fundamental differences regarding Israeli air strikes in Syria.
• Israel can live with Russia's aim of a long-term military presence in Syria.
• Israel will keep a close eye on Russia's military planning: its upgraded Syrian air base can now host bombers with Mediterranean-wide reach.