Serbia's mysterious gun transfers to Israel: Vucic in focus!

Serbia's mysterious gun transfers to Israel: Vucic in focus!

Serbien, Land - Serbia and Israel are currently deepening their relationships at different levels, while European countries are increasingly being at a distance. President Aleksandar Vucic emphasizes the importance of military trade with Israel and describes himself as the only European leader who delivers weapons to Israel. These reinforced connections are particularly important after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, after which Vucic received a message from the Israeli President Jitzchak Duke. Serbia reacted within four days and thereby intensified his defense relationships with Israel.

In 2024, Serbian arms exports to Israel achieved a value of 42.3 million euros, which represents the thirty times the previous year. These developments make Serbia a key partner in the Israeli defense supply chain. The trade and investment relationships between Serbia and Israel achieve record heights and contribute to the economic stability of Serbia.

historical connection and political aspects

Vucic emphasizes that Serbia's bond has a long history to be traced back to 1917 when Serbian representative Milenko Vesnic supported the Balfour declaration. This historical context is regularly addressed by Vucic in his speeches while trying to mobilize the economic potential of an alliance with the United States. Despite the tensions with Kosovo, which Israel recognized as an independent state in 2020, the defense relationships between Serbia and Israel remain strong.

Analysts argue that Serbia's weapons sales to Israel result from economic necessity and less for political motives. Internally, Vucic has been related to Israeli politicians several times, including a phone call to Benjamin Netanyahu, who described him as a "true friend". This direct contact testifies to the ambitious efforts of Vucics to position Serbia as an important partner for the West, especially the USA.

economic challenges and strategic perspectives

The trade relationships between the two countries have developed considerably over the past few years. Serbian export to Israel rose by an impressive 196.2 percent in the first two months of 2025. Israel has established itself as the most important export market in Serbia in the Middle East and occupies the fourth largest place outside of Europe. Serbia exports auto parts, gas turbines and agricultural products to Israel, while Israel in turn delivers high-tech products, medical equipment and tropical fruits to Serbia.

In the context of the regional geopolitical conflicts, Israel remains a stabilizing factor in the Middle East despite the challenges, such as the questions about Iranian influence and criticism of Israeli occupation policy. The international relationships of Israel are characterized by its strategic connection to the USA and the endeavor to consolidate bilateral partnerships with other countries. In this context, Serbia can be seen as a growing partner within the European neighborhood, especially with regard to the security and economic synergies between the two nations.