Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
INTERVIEW Israeli embassy gives safety reassurances to Koreans amid Hamas attacks
Barak Shine, Israeli deputy chief of mission to Korea, speaks about the recent attack by Hamas during an Interview with The Korea Times at the Embassy of Israel in Seoul, Tuesday. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk
By Kim Hyun-bin
'The attack by Hamas was a total massacre of civilians,' Israeli envoy says
The Israeli embassy offered reassurances, Tuesday, to protect Koreans and Korean companies in Israel amid the ongoing war with Hamas.
Barak Shine, Israel's deputy chief of mission to Korea, said in an interview with The Korea Times at the Embassy of Israel in Seoul that the recent conflict was triggered by an unexpected assault that had compelled his country to assume a defensive posture. He outlined Israel's recent efforts, which have been primarily centered on defending itself against attacks and eliminating infiltrators and lambasted the latest onslaught as a "massacre of civilians."
"We cannot tolerate the presence of these ruthless terrorist groups on our borders," Shine said. He added that the Israeli government's primary objective was to neutralize the military capabilities of organizations such as Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and other extremist groups in the Gaza Strip.
Hamas, the Palestinian terrorist organization, launched a significant attack on Israel on Saturday, marking a surge in hostilities. Hamas fired a barrage of rockets at Israeli civilian areas from Gaza, while Israel responded with a series of airstrikes targeting Hamas strongholds and rocket launch sites in the Gaza Strip resulting in hundreds of casualties on both sides and substantial property damage.
Shine underscored that Israel's actions were not solely defensive, but also served as a deterrent to potential adversaries in the region. He extended an appeal to both the Korean government and businesses in Israel, urging them to comprehend the complexities of the situation and assuring them of Israel's unwavering commitment to their safety.
Turning his attention to Korean companies and individuals residing in Israel, Shine highlighted that a majority of them were concentrated in central Israel, particularly in the secure confines of Tel Aviv. He emphasized that Israel possesses the infrastructure and security measures necessary to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essentials and to safeguard all residents, including the Korean community.
While acknowledging the distressing images stemming from the conflict, Shine underscored the resilience of the Israeli people and their resolve to forge ahead. He expressed profound gratitude for the international support Israel had received, singling out the United States for providing both verbal and material assistance.
Regarding Korea's role in the ongoing situation, Shine mentioned that communication is continuing with the Korean government. He placed paramount importance on fostering understanding and expressions of support.
“Korea is in communications with many countries in the region, including Saudi Arabia and also Iran. And any contribution that someone can make in order to lead stability in the region, will be welcome,” Shine said.
He also acknowledged that the conflict might have repercussions on investments and economic measures, but he drew from Israel's history to emphasize the nation's capability to rebound from adversity and rebuild.
Shine expressed optimism that once the conflict is resolved, the region will experience long-term stability and offer a conducive environment for business and investments.
“Israelis, the Jewish people, always throughout history, knew how to stand up and overcome the challenges and correct what needs to be corrected and fix what needs to be fixed and this is how we built our country,” he added.
When questioned about the possibility of humanitarian aid or dispatching medical teams, Shine explained that Israel boasted robust emergency response mechanisms and did not currently see the need for external assistance. However, he warmly welcomed private initiatives and donations from individuals seeking to aid affected families.
Regarding Iran's involvement in the conflict, Shine underscored its significant role in financing and supporting various terrorist organizations in the region, including Hamas. He issued a call for global unity in countering Iran's actions and proposed the imposition of sanctions through the UN Security Council to curb its destabilizing activities.