More than 100 retired Israeli ambassadors and diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed - today, Wednesday - their concern that the policy of the next government led by Benjamin Netanyahu could harm Tel Aviv's foreign relations.
This came in a letter they sent to Netanyahu, according to the official broadcaster that published its text, a day before the prime minister-designate presented his government to gain confidence before the Knesset (Parliament).
The former ambassadors and diplomats said in their letter, "We, the undersigned, who have proudly represented the country abroad over the years, would like to express to you our concern and fear of serious damage to Israel's foreign relations, position and interests as a result of the government's crystallized policy."
They also expressed concerns about statements made by those who will occupy high positions in the government and the Knesset, and from publications about expected changes in “Judea and Samaria” (the biblical designation for the West Bank)—and about the enactment of a number of extreme laws that could lead to discrimination and oppression against minorities. , and the potential harm to freedom of expression and democratic values in Israel.
According to the coalition agreements between Netanyahu and his partners in the right-wing camp, the head of the "Religious Zionism" party, Bezalel Smotrich, will be appointed as an additional minister in the Ministry of Defense, with broad powers over managing the lives of Palestinians and settlers in the West Bank.
The agreement also provides for the "legalization" of small settlement outposts established by settlers on the lands of the West Bank, without the prior approval of the Israeli government, within 60 days of the formation of the government.
Knesset members of parties within the government coalition have also hinted at their intention to ban commercial and medical services for homosexuals.
Diplomatic damage
In their message, the ambassadors and diplomats expressed their fears that the recent developments in the domestic arena would lead to a harsh international response, damage to strategic relations with the United States and Europe, harm the Abraham Accords for normalization with the UAE and Bahrain, and take steps against Israel, its government, soldiers, and citizens in international courts.
They added, "There is no doubt that the expected legal opinion in the International Court of Justice will be affected by recent changes and developments, and may have an impact on the international commercial presence and foreign investments in Israel."
Last November, the Fourth Committee of the United Nations voted in favor of Palestine's request for a legal advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice regarding the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories.
98 countries supported the resolution and 17 others opposed it, while 52 countries abstained from voting.
The government coalition, along with the "Likud" led by Netanyahu, includes parties from the far right, and includes: "Otzma Yehudit" (Jewish Power), "Religious Zionism", "Noam", "Shas" and "United Torah Judaism" religious.
It is expected that the Israeli Knesset (parliament) will vote next Thursday to grant confidence to the Netanyahu government.