Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has warned that Berlin will respond to “unilateral steps” from Israel, while also urging the country to take “substantive steps” to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This comes as Western nations, including France, Canada, and Britain, are set to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September.
Wadephul’s statement marked Germany’s strongest warning yet to Israel, amid growing international pressure on the country over its treatment of Palestinians in Gaza. The minister’s comments also reflected a shift in public opinion in Germany, with 63% of Germans saying Israel’s military campaign has gone too far.
The European Union is also taking steps to pressure Israel, including proposed cuts to research funding for the country. However, some critics argue that Germany’s response remains overly cautious due to historical guilt and pro-Israel sentiment.
Wadephul’s remarks came ahead of a visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, where he will conduct fact-finding missions amid growing concerns over starvation in Gaza. The minister’s statement highlighted the need for Israel to take concrete steps to address the humanitarian crisis, while also acknowledging Germany’s special responsibility towards the country due to its historical ties.
Germany has long been one of Israel’s strongest allies and largest arms suppliers, but Chancellor Friedrich Merz has shown a shift in tone in recent weeks, with some proposing measures such as suspending EU relations with Israel. The EU executive body has recommended cutting Israeli access to research funding, but the proposal lacks support to pass.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-862848