But it is meant to be what the Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris referred to as an “act of powerful political and symbolic value” to Israel, especially as it essays what could be the “final assault” on Rafah. Spain’s action followed its denial of port facilities to a Danish-flagged ship with explosive material from India meant for Israel, which it said was a firm policy now. Israel’s response, however, has been to recall its envoys and summon the envoys of all three countries for a dressing down. But in the longer term, they are meant to remind Mr. Netanyahu that even if he has disassociated himself from the “two-state solution”, this is something the world believes is the road map to peace. By turning deaf to these messages, Mr. Netanyahu is only furthering his isolation, especially from an international community that came out in full sympathy on October 7, but has grown increasingly horrified by the military campaign since then.

Source: The Hindu May 24, 2024 12:43 UTC