President Herzog’s criticism amid diplomatic tsunami: 'We mustn't burn bridges – Israel never faced such hostility'

Israeli President Isaac Herzog spoke this Sunday at the state memorial ceremony for Israel’s past presidents and prime ministers.

During his address, he referred to Israel’s deteriorating foreign relations amid the ongoing war in Gaza and the recent strike in Qatar.

“As someone who has had the honor of serving the people of Israel for many years, I can say this unequivocally: Israel has never faced such hostility. Hatred of Israel is rearing its ugly head with full force, and we must stand up and fight it – with every tool and on every front,” said the president.

Herzog went on to describe Israel’s foreign policy crisis as a “new eighth front” in the war – calling it the diplomatic and informational front, and stressing: “We must not abandon it.”

“Yes, we still have close, friendly, and supportive allies. The visit of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Israel, on behalf of our friend President Donald Trump, is clear proof of that. We must engage in significant diplomatic and public diplomacy efforts. We cannot leave any front unattended. We must talk to everyone and be proactive.”

Herzog emphasized that Israel’s foreign relations and international standing have a direct impact on its national security: “We must not sever ties. We must not burn bridges. Israel’s security doctrine depends heavily on alliances – both within the Middle East and beyond.”

Two years into the war, the Israeli government only approved the establishment of a Public Diplomacy division within the Foreign Ministry last week, tasked with coordinating Israel’s international political and media messaging.

Still, the move is widely seen as too little, too late. Just this past Wednesday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a freeze in EU support for Israel, and said the EU would discuss sanctions on “extremist ministers and violent settlers” and partially suspend trade agreements with Israel.

“What is happening in Gaza has shaken the conscience of the world. Man-made famine can never be used as a weapon of war. The EU’s aid to Gaza far exceeds that of any other partner. But of course, Europe must do more. Here are the steps we will be taking next,” von der Leyen wrote in her official statement.