Netanyahu says Israeli and Russian interests have clashed

Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel's and Russia's interests had clashed repeatedly recently. The Israeli prime minister made the remarks during a presentation of the country's national security doctrine.

Answering a question from The Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu criticised Moscow's cooperation with Tehran. He said Israel raises contentious issues directly with Russia and that he speaks with Vladimir Putin when necessary.

Netanyahu said he seeks opportunities for cooperation where interests overlap. Where they diverge, he said, Israel defends its own position.

The prime minister also said Russia understands that Iran becoming a nuclear power could jeopardise shared Russian and Israeli interests.

Russia has previously opposed Israeli and US military action in Iran. In a February 28 statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the start of the joint operation as a violation of international law.