Germany balances historical responsibility with growing criticism of Israeli policies in Gaza

On July 30, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasised that recognition of a Palestinian state should come only after negotiations toward a two-state solution, while warning that Germany would react to any unilateral actions. 

His statement came amid concerns over "annexation threats" made by some Israeli ministers and ahead of his planned visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, which Berlin has described as a fact-finding mission amid growing alarm over starvation in Gaza.

According to Reuters, Wadephul’s remarks represent Germany’s strongest warning to Israel to date, as Western countries increase pressure. Recently, Britain, Canada, and France have signalled their willingness to recognise a Palestinian state within Israeli-occupied territories at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September.

Critics argue that Germany’s approach remains cautious, influenced by its historical responsibility stemming from the Holocaust and reinforced by strong pro-Israel sentiment in influential German media, which they say limits the West’s collective ability to pressure Israel effectively.

Reiterating Germany’s position, Wadephul stressed that a durable resolution to the Gaza conflict can only be reached through a negotiated two-state solution, with Israel and a Palestinian state coexisting peacefully.

He said, “In light of open annexation threats from parts of the Israeli government, a growing number of countries—including many in Europe—are prepared to recognise a Palestinian state even without prior negotiations. The region and the Middle East peace process are therefore at a crossroads. That process must begin now. Should unilateral steps be taken, Germany too will be compelled to respond.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition includes two far-right parties advocating for the full conquest of Gaza and the restoration of Jewish settlements there. On the same day, two senior Israeli ministers expressed support for annexing the West Bank.

The death toll from nearly two years of conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza surpassed 60,000 this week. Gaza health officials report increasing civilian deaths from starvation and malnutrition, with images of starving children sparking global outrage and criticism of Israel’s restrictions on aid entering the enclave.

Germany, along with the United States, has historically been one of Israel’s closest allies and largest arms suppliers. German officials describe their policy toward Israel as governed by a special responsibility, known as the "Staatsraison," rooted in the legacy of the Nazi Holocaust. They argue that behind-the-scenes diplomacy is more effective than public criticism.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has been a strong supporter of Israel. In February, he declared his intention to facilitate a visit by Netanyahu to Germany without the risk of arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant.

However, in recent weeks, Germany’s tone has shifted alongside changing public opinion. A June 4 poll showed that 63% of Germans believe Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has gone too far. On Monday, Merz stated that measures such as suspending the European Union’s association agreement with Israel were under consideration to increase pressure over the “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The EU executive recommended on July 28 restricting Israel’s access to its flagship research funding program, but the proposal lacks sufficient support to be adopted, with Germany remaining hesitant.

By Tamilla Hasanova