Israel now has the power to respond to action against it with diplomatic consequences - editorial

Israel now possesses the ability to respond to hostile actions against it with diplomatic consequences, according to an editorial. This shift in Israeli policy is evident in the country's response to sanctions from the Netherlands. In September, the Dutch government imposed a ban on importing goods from beyond the Green Line, leading to Foreign Minister Gideon Sa ar expelling Dutch representatives from the US-led Gaza coordination center in Kiryat Gat.

Sa ar stated, "Our message is clear...Israel will not allow measures to be taken against it without a response." This new approach to diplomacy, which links behavior in one sphere to consequences in another, marks a departure from Israel's past reluctance to impose such measures. The editorial argues that this change reflects a stronger, richer, and more independent Israel that is less reliant on the goodwill of governments demanding much while offering little in return.