Netanyahu Admits Israel Facing Economic Isolation Amid Gaza War

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly acknowledged that Israel is becoming “economically isolated” due to international criticism of its war on Gaza, warning that sanctions and reduced foreign trade could hurt the country’s economy. Speaking at a Finance Ministry conference, Netanyahu urged heavy investment in “influence operations” across traditional and social media to fight back against what he called anti-Zionist narratives pushed by countries like Qatar and groups in Europe. He also called for reducing Israel’s reliance on foreign trade and developing domestic production, including arms and defence systems, to prepare for a future of possible sanctions. Opposition leader Yair Lapid blamed Netanyahu’s policies for the isolation, saying his government is “turning Israel into a third world country.” This comes as Gaza’s death toll surpasses 64,000, while international economists warn that occupying Gaza will damage Israel’s economy even further.