German Minister: Time to Consider Palestinian Recognition
Berlin hints at diplomatic pivot as isolation of Israel grows on the international stage
German Foreign Minister Johann Wedpfuhl announced Thursday that Germany believes it is time to initiate a process leading toward the recognition of a Palestinian state, marking a significant shift in tone from one of Israel’s historically staunchest allies in Europe.
Speaking ahead of his visit to Israel, Wedpfuhl addressed growing international frustration over Israel’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He noted that Israel is becoming “increasingly isolated” within the global community, especially following a recent UN conference on the two-state solution, from which both Israel and the United States were notably absent.
"Given the explicit annexation threats coming from segments of the Israeli government, many European nations are now considering recognizing Palestine unilaterally, without a political agreement," Wedpfuhl said.
The comments come just a week after over 70 Israeli lawmakers, including members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, proposed legislation to annex Judea and Samaria—moves that have drawn fresh criticism from Germany.
While reaffirming that Germany’s official position remains that Palestinian statehood should come as a result of a negotiated settlement, Wedpfuhl added: “This process must begin now. Germany cannot remain indifferent to unilateral actions.”
Unlike countries that have pledged unilateral recognition of Palestine, Germany has not yet taken that step. However, the shift in rhetoric signals growing unease in Berlin over Israel’s current direction.
During his visit to the region, the German foreign minister is expected to meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, President Isaac Herzog, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He will also travel to Ramallah to meet with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.
In response to Wedpfuhl’s statements, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir lashed out, saying, “Eighty years after the Holocaust, Germany returns to supporting Nazism.”