Politics Germany does not want to recognize Palestine in the short term
Unlike France, Germany does not want to recognize Palestine as a state in the short term.
25.07.2025, 13:15
SDA
Instead, the German government sees recognition "as one of the final steps" on the way to a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians, said government spokesman Stefan Kornelius in Berlin. This must be achieved through negotiations in order to bring lasting peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians.
Criticism of the "catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza"
"The German government's priority now is to achieve overdue progress on the most urgent issues," said Kornelius. These included a ceasefire in the Gaza war, the release of Israeli hostages by the Palestinian Hamas and the disarmament of Hamas.
The government spokesman once again called on Israel to "immediately and drastically" improve the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. "It must provide the suffering civilian population with humane and urgently needed supplies."
In addition, a viable political perspective for Gaza is necessary so that a temporary ceasefire can become a lasting peace. Israel must also not take "any further steps towards annexing the West Bank".
Berlin ready to increase pressure on Israel
The German government is in constant contact with the Israeli government and its international partners on this issue. "It is prepared to increase the pressure if there is no progress," said Kornelius. He left open which measures this could involve. The SPD - the Social Democratic coalition partner of Chancellor Friedrich Merz's Christian Democrats - recently called once again for a halt to German arms exports to Israel and a freeze on the EU association agreement with Israel.
Kornelius said that the government would continue its aid to create the conditions for Palestinian statehood. This includes supporting the Palestinian Authority.
Macron had announced that France would recognize Palestine as a state in September.
