Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned on September 15, 2025, that Israel faces a prolonged period of international isolation due to backlash over its war in Gaza, which could last years.

Netanyahu attributed Israel's growing diplomatic isolation to factors like Muslim immigration to Europe, foreign social media influence, and the impact of the digital revolution, including investments in artificial intelligence by Qatar and China.

In response, Netanyahu announced that Israel is preparing for increased self-reliance by developing its weapon industry and boosting defense spending, emphasizing the need for economic resilience.

He called for Israel to become both militarily strong like Sparta and diplomatically sophisticated like Athens, highlighting a strategy to counteract international pressures.

Despite warnings from the UN and global criticism, Netanyahu remains firm, refusing to alter Israel's course in Gaza, citing security priorities over legal constraints.

Earlier on September 15, Israel conducted an airstrike on Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar, which drew international condemnation; Netanyahu defended the strike as a warning to terrorists, aligning with US actions.

Netanyahu confirmed the operation during a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who criticized European recognition of Palestinian statehood and praised the US-Israel alliance.

Rubio stated that Hamas feels emboldened by Western recognition of Palestinian statehood at the UN, undermining existing agreements and encouraging militant actions.

He also criticized countries like France and Canada for recognizing Palestine ahead of the UN General Assembly, reflecting ongoing diplomatic tensions.

Doctors Without Borders reported a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with hospitals overwhelmed and shortages of water, food, and shelter for displaced residents due to Israeli military operations.

The conflict has significantly impacted Israel's high-tech sector, marking it as the longest and most expensive in the country's history, with economic tolls mounting.

Opposition figures such as Yair Lapid and Gadi Eisenkot criticize Netanyahu's policies, blaming them for Israel's diplomatic decline and international isolation.

Lapid called Netanyahu's remarks 'insane' and argued that the country's policies are leading it toward a 'third world' status.