LONDON, Aug 18: Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations told the BBC on Friday they would have difficulty accepting nations that do not recognise the Jewish state as part of a peacekeeping force in Lebanon.

“It would be very difficult, if not inconceivable, for Israel to accept troops from countries who do not recognise Israel, who have no diplomatic relations with Israel,” Dan Gillerman told the London-based broadcaster.

Mr Gillerman was speaking after Indonesia and Malaysia, which do not recognise the Jewish state, both offered to supply troops for the UN force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

On the other hand, Israel would be ‘very happy’ to accept troops from Muslim countries with which they had good relations, the diplomat added.

“But to expect countries who don’t even recognise Israel to guard Israel’s safety I think would be a bit naive,” Mr Gillerman said.

UNIFIL currently comprises 2,000 soldiers.

The UN Security Council resolution agreed on Monday to help end a month of fighting between Israeli and Hezbollah militia aims to boost UNIFIL’s troop numbers to 15,000 and widen its remit.—AFP