Germany issues caution to Israel regarding West Bank annexation - Israel cautioned over potential annexation of West Bank territory
Germany's Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, is set to visit Israel and the West Bank this week, with a focus on finding a ceasefire between Israel and the radical Islamic Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
During his two-day visit, starting on Thursday, Wadephul will hold talks with his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar in Tel Aviv. The conflict in the Gaza Strip is a key topic of discussion, as Wadephul expresses concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation there. He has called on Israel to alleviate Gaza’s dire conditions swiftly and comprehensively.
Wadephul's concerns are not unfounded. Approximately 50 people, including a "single-digit number" of German nationals, are among those still missing, kidnapped by Hamas from Israel in October 2023. Wadephul considers the release of the still missing hostages as important, with about 20 of them likely still alive.
In addition to the Gaza Strip, Wadephul's stance on Israel's planned unilateral annexation of the West Bank is clear. He opposes the move, warning it will accelerate diplomatic isolation of Israel and push Germany toward expedited recognition of a Palestinian state. While Germany traditionally views Palestinian state recognition as the conclusion of a broader negotiation process, the process must begin now given Israel’s annexation threats.
Wadephul's visit will also include meetings with UN representatives in Jerusalem and Palestinian Authority representatives in Ramallah. He reiterates his support for a two-state solution but frames Germany’s policy in response to Israel’s annexation plans and Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. This suggests possible recognition of Palestine ahead of negotiations and a call for more humanitarian aid for the population in the Gaza Strip.
On Friday, Wadephul plans to meet with Palestinian Authority representatives in Ramallah and UN representatives in Jerusalem. His main goal during his visit is to find a solution to the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip and to protect civilians, including Germans, amid the escalating situation.
In line with his upcoming visit to Israel and the West Bank, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul will confront the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Gaza Strip, focusing on finding a ceasefire, while also addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis. Furthermore, Wadephul's stance on Israel's unilateral annexation of the West Bank and the general news of war-and-conflicts in the region will be a significant part of his discussions, as he calls for a two-state solution to maintain consistent EU relations with the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, and emphasizes the importance of the release of the still missing hostages amid the ongoing crisis.
