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Germany warns Israel faces growing isolation over Palestinian statehood
Germany’s foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, has cautioned that Israel is becoming increasingly diplomatically isolated amid rising international criticism over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and mounting support for the recognition of a Palestinian state.
Israel’s shrinking diplomatic support
Speaking ahead of his visit to Israel, Wadephul pointed to the outcomes of a recent UN conference on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which focused on a two-state solution. The conference, boycotted by both the United States and Israel, underscored what he described as Israel’s “increasingly minority position” on the issue.
While Germany remains one of Israel’s closest allies, Wadephul noted that growing calls for unilateral recognition of Palestine by European countries are being fueled by controversial policies within the Israeli government, including open discussions of annexing parts of the occupied West Bank.
Shift in Germany’s stance
Germany has historically maintained that recognition of a Palestinian state should follow the conclusion of negotiations. However, Wadephul emphasized the urgency of initiating these discussions, warning that Berlin “will also be forced to react to unilateral moves.”
His remarks come after more than 70 Israeli lawmakers, including some from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling coalition, passed a motion advocating for the imposition of Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank.
Diplomatic agenda
During his visit, Wadephul is expected to meet key Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, President Isaac Herzog, and Prime Minister Netanyahu. He will also travel to the West Bank to hold talks with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas as part of Germany’s effort to encourage dialogue between the two sides.