Israel has become world’s most boycotted state: report

Israel is facing an unprecedented level of international boycotts and sanctions, making it one of the most targeted countries globally, according to a report published by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth on Thursday.

In an article titled "How Israel Became the Most Boycotted Nation in the World," the newspaper described a growing wave of international measures directed at Israeli government officials, settlers, and state institutions. It noted that pressure has intensified from both governments and pro-boycott organisations.

Among recent developments, France barred Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from entering the country, following a similar restriction imposed on National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. According to the report, the bans were linked to the ministers' support for West Bank annexation, settlement expansion, and policies viewed as weakening the Palestinian Authority.

The report highlighted that the international community considers the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, to be occupied Palestinian territory, and any annexation would undermine prospects for a future independent Palestinian state.

Yedioth Ahronoth observed that before October 7, 2023, Israel had largely managed to limit the impact of boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaigns. Strong economic performance reduced the effectiveness of economic pressure, while academic and cultural boycotts remained largely symbolic.

However, the newspaper stated that the movement has gained significant momentum in recent years, achieving greater influence across political, economic, cultural, and social spheres. It noted that Israel’s international image has suffered, with public opinion surveys in several countries showing increasingly negative perceptions.

Examples cited in the report include artists declining to perform in Israel, authors refusing Hebrew translations of their works, and campaigns advocating Israel’s exclusion from international events such as Eurovision and FIFA competitions.

The newspaper also pointed to efforts aimed at reducing foreign investment in Israel, including decisions by major international funds to divest from certain Israeli companies. It further noted that the UN Human Rights Council's blacklist continues to target companies operating in Israeli settlements beyond the Green Line.

According to the report, incidents involving settler violence against Palestinians, as well as damage to Palestinian property in the occupied West Bank, have contributed to growing international criticism and support for sanctions.

The article also stated that controversial statements and actions by Israeli ministers have intensified international concerns. In particular, it referenced a widely circulated video involving Itamar Ben-Gvir and participants in a Gaza-bound flotilla, which reportedly drew criticism from several countries and was viewed by many as crossing diplomatic boundaries.