Following are Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s remarks earlier today, at Rambam Hospital in Haifa:

“First of all, on the way here we flew over the Carmel, where we heard and saw the Greek aircraft fighting the fire.� They entered the smoke and dropped water.� We heard them talking, in English of course.� I very much appreciate the mobilization of many countries.

We already have planes that are now in action as the only genuinely effective means in blocking the fire.

I spoke with Russian Prime Minister Putin before coming here.� The large Russian planes are due to land this afternoon.� I expressed my gratitude and appreciation on behalf of all Israelis for this great � and massive, one might say, in the full sense of the word � help.� I told Prime Minister Putin that I would also be pleased to receive expert Russian assistance in dealing with these matters.� I think that Russia, more than any other country, has experienced giant brushfires and it has experience.� He said that he would speak immediately with the relevant minister and would send, in addition to the planes, know-how and whatever else we request.� The response in general, by the countries of the world, has been exceptional, as is their willingness to dispatch assistance and sometimes offer help even before we request it.� It must reassure all Israelis at this difficult time because there really is here admiration for, and solidarity with, Israel on an unprecedented scale.

(YWN Israel Desk)