Foreign Policy Live Is the West Turning Against Israel?
Aug 8, 2025
Daniel Levy, a former Israeli peace negotiator and co-founder of J Street, discusses the shifting dynamics of Western support for Israel amid growing international recognition of Palestine. He examines the impact of recent diplomatic moves by Britain, Canada, and France, exploring the political motivations behind these changes. Levy highlights the decline in public support for Israel's actions in Gaza, the implications for U.S. foreign policy, and the challenges Israel faces regarding its humanitarian responsibilities and global image.
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Recognition Likely Symbolic Gesture
- Daniel Levy says Western recognition aims to be a gesture that avoids deeper measures.
- He believes leaders hope it will appease publics without disrupting bilateral relations.
Recognition Could Be A Launchpad, Not Endpoint
- Daniel Levy warns recognition may intensify pressure for tougher steps rather than stop activism.
- He expects campaigners to demand further measures when recognition changes nothing.
Europe Could Escalate Beyond Symbolic Steps
- Levy lists realistic follow-up measures: arms bans, visa rules, financial limits, and boycotts.
- He warns Europe may have to adopt such steps if symbolic moves fail to change Israel's conduct.