In brief
Israel's international standing may be reaching a critical juncture as the Gaza conflict persists, raising concerns about a 'South Africa moment' that could impose significant political and economic repercussions on the nation. With notable global figures and organizations considering sanctions and boycotts, former Israeli leaders voice their fears of the country stepping onto a path similar to South Africa's past. The ongoing geopolitical tensions may lead to lasting changes in Israel's foreign relations and its approach toward Palestine.
As the war in Gaza grinds on, Israel's international isolation appears to be deepening.
Is it approaching a South Africa moment, when a combination of political pressure, economic, sporting and cultural boycotts helped to force Pretoria to abandon apartheid?
Or can the right-wing government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu weather the diplomatic storm, leaving Israel free to pursue its goals in Gaza and the occupied West Bank without causing permanent damage to its international standing?
Two former prime ministers, Ehud Barak and Ehud Olmert, have already accused Netanyahu of turning Israel into an international pariah.
Thanks to a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, the number of countries Netanyahu can travel to without the risk of being arrested has shrunk dramatically.
At the UN, several countries, including Britain, France, Australia, Belgium, and Canada, have said they are planning to recognise Palestine as a state next week.
And Gulf countries, reacting with fury to last Tuesday's Israeli attack on Hamas leaders in Qatar, have been meeting in Doha to discuss a unified response, with some calling for a reconsideration of relations with Israel.
But with images of starvation emerging from Gaza over the summer and the Israeli army poised for a significant military response, more European governments are expressing their displeasure beyond mere statements.
Belgium announced a series of sanctions earlier this month, including a ban on imports from illegal Jewish settlements in the West Bank, while Spain turned its arms embargo into law.
Former diplomats warn that the measures could drive a wedge between moderate Israelis and the international community, complicating efforts to regenerate Israel's standing on the world stage.
The combination of civil and governmental reactions, along with international public sentiment, may contribute to Israel's potential isolation reminiscent of past global events. As international opinions shift, the pressure on Israel to change its policies could mount, leading to far-reaching consequences for its diplomacy.
