Israel's Escalating International Isolation: A 'South Africa Moment' Looming?

Tue Sep 16 2025 00:41:43 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The ongoing Gaza conflict has intensified Israel's international isolation, drawing comparisons to South Africa's apartheid era. Can Netanyahu's right-wing government withstand the diplomatic storm?

As violent conflict continues in Gaza, Israel faces increasing scrutiny and condemnation from the international community, evoking comparisons to South Africa's apartheid struggle. Several nations, including Belgium and Spain, have begun implementing sanctions against Israeli officials, while others are contemplating recognition of Palestine as a state. Former Israeli leaders express concern over the country's international standing, with warnings that Israel might be on a path toward becoming a pariah state. This article analyzes the implications of these developments and the potential for political and economic pressure to alter Israel's policies in Gaza and beyond.

Israel's Escalating International Isolation: A 'South Africa Moment' Looming?

17 minutes ago

Paul Adams, Diplomatic correspondent, Jerusalem

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

As the war in Gaza grinds on, Israel's international isolation appears to be deepening.

Is it approaching a 'South Africa moment', when boycotts compelled Pretoria to abandon apartheid? Or can Netanyahu’s government weather the storm?

Former prime ministers Barak and Olmert accuse Netanyahu of making Israel an international pariah. With an ICC warrant against him, Netanyahu's travel options shrink dramatically.

At the UN, countries like Britain and France may recognize Palestine as a state, while Gulf nations react strongly against recent Israeli actions.

International displeasure grows as images from Gaza highlight the humanitarian crisis, causing more states to express concern.

Belgium has enforced sanctions against Israeli settlements; Spain has intensified its arms embargo, indicating a shifting political landscape.

Beyond sanctions, cultural boycotts echo those against South Africa, with Eurovision participants threatening withdrawal if Israel competes.

In Hollywood, calls for a boycott of Israeli media interests gain traction with notable support.

However, conflicting opinions emerge. Former diplomats express worries that broad sanctions may alienate moderate Israelis, complicating the effort for peace.

Experts suggest Israel might be facing a moment analogous to South Africa's past struggles, urging international pressure to facilitate change. Nevertheless, doubts remain about the extent of the current isolation's impact on Israel's policy.

Despite the pressure, Israel enjoys substantial support from the US, impacting the broader political landscape. As scrutiny grows, many observers wonder how far Israel's international relationships will shift in light of recent events.

While some predict dire consequences for Israel's international reputation, others assert that the current situation is not yet irreversible, emphasizing ongoing support from key global allies.