Is Israel Approaching a 'South Africa Moment' Amid Rising International Isolation?

Tue Sep 16 2025 03:22:36 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The ongoing war in Gaza raises questions about Israel's diplomatic future as pressures mount for accountability and change. Former leaders warn of a potential 'pariah' status akin to South Africa during apartheid.

As the conflict in Gaza continues, Israel's international standing appears increasingly precarious. Some experts warn that the country risks falling into a 'South Africa moment,' where global pressures and boycotts could force a reevaluation of its policies. Notable former politicians have already expressed concerns over actions that may isolate Israel further, as countries announce sanctions and consider recognizing Palestinian statehood. Amid growing dissent and potential cultural boycotts, the Israeli government faces a significant diplomatic challenge amidst calls for change.

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 recognize Palestine as a state next week.

And Gulf countries, reacting with fury to Recent Israeli attacks, have called for a unified response.

With disturbing evidence of starvation in Gaza and the Israeli army poised for action, European nations express displeasure not just verbally but through punitive measures.

Belgium recently announced sanctions against Israel, including bans on imports from illegal settlements and restrictions on high-profile individuals.

Spain has also pushed an arms embargo and imposed restrictions on entry for certain Israeli officials, which has resonated with protest movements.

Former diplomats express deep concerns that Israel's policies may lead to a broader backlash, with calls for significant changes highlighted by the EU's potential action against certain Israeli ministers.

Despite efforts to exert pressure, some observers doubt Israel is on the brink of an existential crisis, given its continued strong ties with the US.

Even so, voices within Israel call for a reassessment of its international relations and policies to avoid a diplomatic isolation reminiscent of South Africa's past.