Israel Faces Growing International Boycott Threats Over Policies

The article warns of escalating international sanctions and boycotts against Israel, driven by its current government's policies and rhetoric, particularly those of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Netanyahu's UN speech, stating the world is against Israel, is presented not as hyperbole but as a blueprint for future policy. Smotrich is quoted as promising a "huge war" in the West Bank during the next term, a stark contrast to past election promises of peace.

Western European nations, including the UK, France, Netherlands, and Norway, are reportedly preparing parliamentary and governmental actions that could lead to significant sanctions. These measures, expected to be finalized by October 27, could target economic ties with the West Bank, potentially impacting hundreds of thousands of Israelis and thousands of businesses. A broad interpretation of these sanctions could extend to entities doing business with those operating in the territories, potentially paralyzing banks and insurance companies with international dealings.

Further measures discussed include passport regulations, with a proposal in the Netherlands to require Israeli passports to list residency, potentially leading to differential treatment and visa requirements for Israelis residing in the territories. The author suggests these actions, while potentially unfair and disproportionate, carry an antisemitic undertone and reflect a negative global perception of Israel.

The article highlights that the pressure for boycotts originates from grassroots movements in democratic countries, affecting sports, culture, and academia. Potential targets include international institutions like Eurovision and European sports federations. The cancellation of a flight to Mauritius is cited as an example of Israel's precarious international standing, with fears that such boycotts could spread rapidly through labor unions and professional organizations.

Ultimately, the author argues that Netanyahu's proposed path for Israel resembles Sparta, a city-state focused on war, or Masada, a besieged fortress leading to heroic suicide, rather than a desirable future. The piece concludes with a plea to heed this warning, hoping it proves unfounded like prior alerts before the October 7th attacks.