Frederik Willem de Klerk, South Africa’s last white president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, wrote in his autobiography: “It wasn’t international pressure that brought us down, but the mistakes we made in dealing with that pressure.” Israel finds itself precisely at this point today.

For the impending steps by some Western states to recognize a Palestinian state do not pose an existential threat to Israel—yet they do risk further diplomatic isolation through an ill-considered response. Between nine and twelve countries plan to officially recognize a Palestinian state in the coming days.

Waiting for the conversation with Trump

In Jerusalem, it is emphasized that no decision has yet been made on Israel’s response. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to coordinate first on Monday, September 29, during his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House. Israel is aiming for maximum coordination with Washington.

These recognitions would join a series of 148 countries that have already recognized “Palestine.” What’s new, however, is that three G7...

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