Daniel Batini, an International Affairs Correspondent for Yedioth Ahronoth, Pointed to the Sharp Decline in Israel's Image in Europe

An international affairs analyst at the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth has warned that the actions and statements of Israeli officials have intensified the country's isolation in Europe and fueled a growing wave of hatred against Jews worldwide. Daniel Batini, an international affairs correspondent for Yedioth Ahronoth, pointed to the sharp decline in Israel's image in Europe in recent years, attributing part of the situation to European media and social networks, but also stressing that Israeli government officials share responsibility for creating these conditions. Batini specifically cited the statements and positions of Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's Internal Security Minister, as a factor causing serious damage to European Jews.

He referred to Ben-Gvir's remarks about the need to kill dozens of Palestinians daily in Gaza, as well as videos released by him about the death penalty and dealing with European activists in the flotilla headed to Gaza. Such statements spread quickly in European countries and create a wave of disgust that, in other cases, is not only directed at Israel but also affects Jews in various parts of the world, Batini said. He added that leaders of Jewish communities in Europe have also described Ben-Gvir's statements as extremist and racist.

According to the analyst, European Jews have found themselves in a difficult position: on one hand, they must decide about their connection and support for Israel, and on the other hand, they face criticism and a wave of hatred resulting from the regime's policies. Batini also considered the behavior of some Israeli soldiers and published images of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank as other factors damaging Israel's image, pointing to examples of the destruction of a Christian statue and humiliating behavior toward Palestinians. He concluded by warning that the continuation of this trend has even created divisions among world Jewry and may cause Jews outside Israel to distance themselves further from the regime, urging Israel to reconsider its policies as soon as possible. The report was published by the AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA).