SPIEGEL PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Diplomacy is the practice of managing relationships between states, institutions, and societies. It combines negotiation, strategic communication, and trust-building to turn national interests into lasting partnerships and constructive influence.

For Israel, diplomacy is central to security and prosperity. Beyond military strength or economic growth, credibility abroad sustains alliances, expands trade, and builds resilience. It ensures that domestic policy choices resonate with international expectations and maintain room for strategic maneuvering.

Diplomacy increasingly operates in a crowded, high-speed environment where narratives matter as much as policies. The rise of social media, new power rivalries, and shifting public opinion mean that influence is judged not only on outcomes, but on legitimacy and clarity. States must navigate alliances, manage competing pressures, and maintain consistent communication to preserve trust.

Effective diplomacy is not about defending positions but shaping them with foresight. It requires credibility, adaptability, and coalition-building—qualities that turn complex challenges into opportunities. Long-term influence depends on connecting national priorities with global norms in ways that strengthen both security and legitimacy.