Rebranding the country without addressing the conflict is just plain stupid … Unfortunately, Israeli governments tend to deal with this type of policy dead end by escalating the conflict or going to war.
Let history record that Pope Benedict XVI played the lead role in the futile effort to gloss over Israeli barbarity.
See:
“Israel” Hopes Papal Visit Will Help Polish International Image In Wake of Gaza Massacre
Will Benedict’s “Pilgrimage” Boost “Israel’s” Image or Destroy His Own?
Benedict’s Hasbara Mission
Benedict XVI, Hexagram Hat Make Cover of Foreign Policy Magazine