Israel flexes diplomatic muscle, imposing costs on nations acting against it

Israel is signaling a shift in its diplomatic approach, asserting its power to impose consequences on nations that take actions deemed inimical to its interests. This evolving strategy was starkly illustrated by the expulsion of Dutch representatives from the US-led Gaza coordination center.

This move followed the Netherlands' decision to ban imports from Israeli settlements beyond the Green Line, effective September 22. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar declared, “Our message is clear. Those who act against Israel will have no foothold in the region. Israel will not allow measures to be taken against it without a response.”

The editorial frames this as a necessary assertion of statecraft, arguing that countries routinely link actions in one sphere to consequences in another. Israel, no longer a small, developing nation but a significant regional military and technological power, possesses options it did not have in the past. It can now impose costs rather than simply protest and absorb blows.

This policy appears to be an emerging pattern, following a similar action in April when Israel barred Spain from the same Gaza coordination center after Spain enacted hostile measures. The message is clear: governments that wage diplomatic campaigns against Israel should not expect Israeli cooperation in enhancing their regional relevance. Access and influence are assets that Israel is now prepared to use as leverage.

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Our message is clear. Those who act against Israel will have no foothold in the region. Israel will not allow measures to be taken against it without a response.