EU Diplomat Warns Israeli Government Policies Risk International Isolation

A senior European diplomat has warned that the current Israeli government's policies are leading the country toward unprecedented international isolation and loss of legitimacy. Speaking anonymously to the Israeli news outlet Ynet on October 1, the diplomat expressed that Europe's anger towards Israel has reached a critical level, attributing significant damage to the country in a short period to the current administration. The diplomat specifically criticized the inaction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet regarding settler violence in Judea and Samaria, noting the ongoing settlement construction. The diplomat pointed to actions taken by the UK and 12 EU countries concerning settlements as evidence of growing international pressure. The diplomat also cautioned that harsh responses from Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar against the UK and Netherlands could provoke severe retaliation, citing the decision to close the British consulate in Jerusalem within a month as an unacceptable diplomatic move, with potential reciprocal measures expected after October 8. The diplomat concluded by stating that Israelis must recognize the damage caused by the current cabinet, specifically mentioning the actions and rhetoric of ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich as pushing the state towards a "political abyss" and asserting that the Prime Minister is not in control.