Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom was quoted Jan. 12 in the Swedish media as demanding an investigation into the circumstances under which Palestinians were killed by Israeli security forces in the current wave of violence. Her comment generated furious reactions in Israel that reflected a grim absence of coherent and effective foreign policy in the diplomatic battle with the Palestinians.

In a formal response to Wallstrom’s comment, which was similar to others she has made in the past, Sweden’s ambassador to Israel was summoned to the Foreign Ministry for a reprimand. But even as Israel was taking its required official measure, senior Likud figures made a wild, unfocused and ineffective attack that served their political needs but could be damaging to Israeli foreign policy.

Science Minister Ofir Akunis, for example, suggested recalling the Israeli ambassador from Stockholm to Jerusalem for “consultations.” Recalling an ambassador is an extreme measure reflecting a deep diplomatic crisis. This comment by the Swedish foreign minister, severe though it may be, to our best knowledge does not reflect the views of the entire Swedish government and thus does not appear to merit such a move. In any case, Akunis, who does not have any official role in foreign policy, spoke of his own accord and added fuel to the fire.

The embarrassing reaction of Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely, reflecting her own views and voiced without consultation with her ministry staff, was more serious. Hotovely launched a sharp all-out attack on Sweden, accusing it of encouraging terrorism and the Islamic State organization. Hotovely even declared that in the wake of Wallstrom’s remarks, Israel would close its gates to official visits from Sweden.