Israel's new ambassador to Moscow

Simona Halperin, the newly appointed Israeli ambassador to Russia, presented the formal copy of her credentials to Mikhail Bogdanov, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, in a ceremony held on Monday.

"We had a constructive conversation about bilateral relations and the situation in the Middle East. The fight against Hamas and ISIS is crucial for safeguarding our freedoms. We must also do everything in our power to secure the release of our hostages in Gaza," stated Ambassador Halperin.

Mikhail Bogdanov, who currently serves as an advisor to President Vladimir Putin for the Middle East and Africa, has previously held the position of Russian ambassador in Tel Aviv in the past.

Ambassador Halperin's appointment comes at a pivotal time when Israel seeks to strengthen its diplomatic ties and navigate complex regional challenges in the Middle East.