Israeli envoy to UN says that to expect nations like Malaysia and Indonesia - who do not recognize Israel's right to exist - to guard Israel's safety 'is a bit naïve'



The Israeli envoy to the UN, Danny Gillerman, said that it would be "difficult if not inconceivable" to accept nations who do not recognize Israel's right to exist and who have no diplomatic relations with Israel as part of a UN force in southern Lebanon .



Gillerman made the statement in an interview with BBC Online, after Malaysia and Indonesia – who do not recognize Israel - have both said they were willing to send troops to the region.



He said Israel would be "very happy" to accept troops from Muslim countries they have friendly relations with.




"But to expect countries who don't even recognize Israel to guard Israel's safety I think would be a bit naive," Gillerman said.