Body of Israeli soldier missing since 1982 found by Russian army: Putin

The body of an Israeli soldier missing since the 1982 Lebanon War has been found by the Russian and Syrian armies, President Vladimir Putin said during a meeting Thursday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu visited Putin in Moscow five days before he is to seek a fifth term in office in a difficult election.

"Our military together with Syrian partners found the place of his burial," Putin said, referring to Sergeant First Class Zachary Baumel.

"We are very happy that he will be able to receive the right military honours in his homeland," Putin said, adding that Russia would send the remains to Israel.

Netanyahu said Baumel would be laid to rest in Israel Thursday evening. "There will be a very moving ceremony tonight," he said.

"Zachary's friends and family will take part."
In comments translated into Russian, Netanyahu said he asked Putin two years ago to "help in the search of the remains of our soldiers, including the Sergeant (Baumel)."
In a televised address on Wednesday, Netanyahu said the operation was "the result of major diplomatic efforts that we will speak about one day."