Lithuania plans defence attaché appointment in Israel

Lithuania’s Ministry of Defence has put forward a proposal to create a defence attaché position at the country’s embassy in Israel, arguing that such a step would strengthen military procurement efforts and help secure reliable supply chains.

In comments to Baltic media, the ministry explained that Lithuania’s objectives extend beyond purchasing weapons and military equipment from Israeli manufacturers or maintaining already acquired systems. The initiative is also intended to reinforce supply chain resilience, promote the development of joint defence-industry projects within Lithuania, and enhance the export potential of the country’s national defence sector.

According to the ministry, the defence attaché would serve as a key liaison with Israeli defence authorities and industry institutions, facilitate cooperation between the two countries’ institutions and armed forces, and provide assessments and information related to the regional security environment.

Officials noted that the proposal aligns with priorities outlined in the Lithuanian government’s programme aimed at expanding cooperation in security, defence and defence-industry development. The ministry added that, when evaluating the initiative, it considered Lithuania’s defence and security interests alongside broader foreign-policy objectives. If approved, the Lithuanian representative would join other European Union and NATO defence attachés already stationed in Tel Aviv, including those from Lithuania’s strategic partners — the United States, Germany and Poland.

The ministry further stated that both it and the Lithuanian Armed Forces seek to benefit from Israel’s experience in areas such as total defence, mobilisation systems, crisis management and strengthening societal resilience.

In recent years, Lithuania has intensified defence cooperation with allies and partners as it responds to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and wider regional security challenges.

At the same time, Israel has faced credible accusations of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip and has promoted the expansion of Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law.

By Tamilla Hasanova