A Blunt Take on Israel's Controversial Moves: Wadephul Slams Settlements, Urges Aid for Gaza
Israel's Settlement Policy Violates Global Legal Standards
In a frank discussion with Israeli foreign minister Gideon Saar, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has pulled no punches, slamming Israel's current settlement policy as a violation of international law. This contentious move by the Israeli government only serves to block the path to a two-state solution, Wadephul stated.
As tensions escalate in the West Bank, Wadephul expressed deep concern. "We can't just shrug this off, even as allies," he underscored. The stirring of annexation whispers among Israeli government members further erodes trust in the Israeli government – among friends, neighbors, and allies, Wadephul urged cautiously.
Wadephul made a passionate plea for Israel to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. "The people of Gaza are suffering," he said, "ordinary folks who struggle to find food and medicine. Many of them walk miles to aid distribution points, only to return empty-handed – with the saddest consequence, they don't make it back because they're killed." Aid organizations must be promptly granted unhindered access to operate within Gaza, Wadephul insisted, a concern of both humanity and international law.
Backing Israel, But with Conditions
Despite its steadfast support for Israel, Germany cannot ignore its principles, Wadephul asserted. "Germany is committed to the security and existence of the State of Israel," he clarified, "and we're bound by international law." Acknowledging that Israel could greatly benefit from diplomatic recognition by Saudi Arabia and Syria, Wadephul expressed his hope that such recognition would greatly boost Israel's security and stability in the entire Middle East.
In addition, Wadephul assured Saar that Germany remains resolute in its stand against Iran, sharing its conviction that Iran should never acquire nuclear weapons. "Israel can count on Germany," Wadephul affirmed.
Bundestag's Arm wrestle over Export Restrictions
The Union faction in the Bundestag has emphatically rejected an arms embargo against Israel. According to Armin Laschet, chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, "we will not impose restrictions on arms exports." He clarified that such measures are unnecessary during times of threat to the country.
On the other hand, the SPD – Germany's coalition partner – has expressed caution. Adis Ahmetovic, the SPD's foreign policy spokesman, emphasized that the federal government should scrutinize each weapons delivery to ensure German weapons are not used to protect a state that violates international law. The Greens' Max Lucks advocated for restricting deliveries to prevent German weapons from being used in Gaza or the West Bank.
The conversation was lively, with the Left Party chairwoman Ines Schwerdtner calling for an immediate halt to all arms exports to Israel, while the deputy AfD faction leader Beatrix von Storch argued that no country can accept such terrorist threats against their citizens.
- Johann Wadephul
- Berlin
- Israel
- Middle East Conflict
- Diplomacy
- West Bank
- Gaza Strip
Enrichment Data:In international law terms, Israel's settlement of the occupied West Bank is considered a violation under the Fourth Geneva Convention, as the transfer of a civilian population into occupied territories is prohibited[3][5]. The broader context of the Gaza Strip is connected to this issue, as the settlements and their expansion are considered contentious amidst calls for a two-state solution. Humanitarian crisis in Gaza poses concern[5], and the international community has emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict[1][3][5].
- A Parliament resolution on the Commission communication on the future of the European Union could discuss Germany's stance on the ongoing Middle East conflict, identifying Israel's settlements in the occupied West Bank as a violation of international law, particularly under the Fourth Geneva Convention.
- In Berlin, politics surrounding the Middle East conflict continue to evolve, with debates in the Bundestag revolving around export restrictions of weapons to Israel, raising concerns about ambiguous use in the West Bank or Gaza Strip, as Germany navigates the delicate balance between its principles and commitment to Israel's security.
