Settlement expansion, Jewish terror pose severe risk to Israel’s economy, senior economists warn
The sanctions and boycotts further harm Israel's defense industry and cultural sphere, such as the INS Drakon submarine's delivery delays and artists refusing to perform in Israel.
A coalition of 61 senior economists has issued a stark warning that the expansion of West Bank settlements and Jewish violence against Palestinians could inflict severe economic repercussions on Israel. The economists argue that such actions could trigger international sanctions, deepen economic isolation, and increase the cost of living for all Israelis.
They warn that if these measures spread to other nations or encompass the broader Israeli economy, the damage could be unprecedented. The letter highlights the diplomatic strain caused by settlement expansion and Jewish terror, which are driving Israel's international isolation. The economists emphasize that preventing this damage is crucial, as the economic burden ultimately falls on every Israeli.
Currently, there are around 100 sanctions imposed by over 50 countries, primarily targeting financial measures and arms transactions. The economists also point to the United Nations' blacklist of companies linked to Israeli settlements, which now includes 214 companies from 11 countries, including all Israeli banks and Tnuva. These restrictions exacerbate an already challenging environment for Israeli academia, impacting fields vital to the high-tech industry.
The economists cite examples such as delays in the delivery of the INS Drakon submarine and artists refusing to perform in Israel. Furthermore, the letter points out the negative impact on Israel's defense industry and cultural sphere. The economists' concerns come as a survey reveals that nearly one in three Israeli students is contemplating leaving the country due to the soaring cost of living.
The survey found that Israeli students' monthly expenses have skyrocketed to NIS 6,907, with nearly half of them relying on financial assistance from their parents.
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