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Netanyahu Urges Israel to Combat Growing International Isolation with Media Influence Strategy

Facing global criticism over conflict in Gaza and war with Iran, Prime Minister Netanyahu calls for heavy investment in influence operations and economic self-reliance to counter Israel’s isolation.

Around mid-September 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu openly addressed what he sees as Israel’s rising international isolation. Speaking at a Finance Ministry conference, he urged his government and relevant ministries to double down on influence operations—through traditional media, social platforms, and diplomatic channels—to reshape global narratives about Israel’s military actions. While many have long noted criticism over its conduct in Gaza, Netanyahu declared it was time not just to respond, but to actively counterbalance what he described as unfair global pressure. Reuters

The backdrop to his address is complex. Earlier this year, Israel engaged in a 12-day war with Iran, putting the region on edge. At the same time, the conflict with Hamas in Gaza has resulted in heavy losses—both human and humanitarian—according to various sources. Over 64,000 Palestinians have reportedly died, as per Palestinian health authorities. These developments have triggered strong international reactions, with many nations, human rights groups, and even economists warning of sanctions, trade restrictions, and a harder diplomatic line being drawn. Reuters

Netanyahu pointed out that the isolation was escalating, attributing much of the global backlash to media narratives shaped by ideological groups. He specifically mentioned criticism coming from segments in Europe, including anti-Zionist and Islamist entities, as contributing to what he called a negative perception of Israel abroad. He warned of the risk that Israel could be “blocked not only in research and development but in industrial production” if current trends persist. Reuters

Israelis call for the return of the remaining hostages held in Gaza at a demonstration in Tel Aviv on Saturday. (Jack Guez/AFP/Getty Images)

In response, several Israeli leaders voiced pushback. Opposition figure Yair Lapid blamed Netanyahu’s policies for deteriorating relations and said that the government’s choices have increased economic risks. Meanwhile, economists—some 80 from different financial and economic institutions—warned that occupation plans in Gaza, if pursued, could hurt both Israel’s economy and international trade relationships, especially with European partners threatened by potential sanctions. Reuters

A large part of Netanyahu’s strategy emphasizes economic self-reliance. He proposed boosting industrial output, especially in defense and other strategic sectors, so that Israel is less dependent on foreign imports and trade. The idea is to build resilience in the face of possible sanction threats or pressure from countries limiting cooperation. Reuters

The public mood inside Israel appears tense but mixed. On one hand, many citizens, media commentators, and even some business leaders acknowledge that Israel has lost some global sympathy due to the humanitarian consequences of its military campaigns. On the other hand, there are those who see the isolation narrative itself as politicized—framed by rivals or external actors—and fear that conceding too much would weaken Israel’s defense posture. Whether Netanyahu’s call for influence operations will actually change perceptions remains uncertain. But it’s a signal that Israeli leadership feels cornered diplomatically, economically, and reputationally.

FAQs

Q1. What does Netanyahu mean by “Israel’s isolation”?
He refers to growing global criticism, possible sanctions, declining foreign investment, and diplomatic pressure—especially following conflicts involving Gaza and Iran.

Q2. What are “influence operations” that Netanyahu is advocating?
These are efforts to shape public opinion and narratives through media (TV, newspapers), social media, diplomatic messaging, and cultural diplomacy. The goal is to counter negative portrayals and opposition from global critics.

Q3. How could economic self-reliance reduce Israel’s isolation?
By producing more within its own borders—especially in strategic sectors like defense and industrial goods—Israel could become less vulnerable to trade restrictions or foreign leverage when international pressure increases.

Q4. Who is opposing these measures within Israel?
Opposition politicians, economists, and civil society groups have expressed concern. They warn that continued conflicts and occupational plans risk greater economic damage and diplomatic fallout.

Q5. What risks does Israel face if isolation worsens?
Potential risks include sanctions from foreign governments, loss of trade partnerships, difficulties in exporting goods and collaborating on R&D, and harm to its global image, which might affect tourism, foreign investment, and diplomatic relations.