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Germany’s foreign minister, Johann Wadephul has said that Israel is becoming more diplomatically isolated over its stance on Gaza and growing calls for recognition of a Palestinian state.
Speaking ahead of his visit to Israel, Wadephul pointed to a recent UN conference focused on a two-state solution—which both the United States and Israel chose not to attend—as evidence that international opinion is shifting. “Israel is finding itself increasingly in the minority,” he said.
Although Germany has traditionally been one of Israel’s closest allies, Wadephul acknowledged that sentiment in Europe is changing, especially in light of remarks from some Israeli government members advocating for annexation of the occupied West Bank. He noted that “a growing number of European countries are ready to recognise a state of Palestine without previous negotiations.”
Just last week, more than 70 members of Israel’s parliament, including those within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition, supported a proposal urging the government to formally impose sovereignty over the West Bank.
Wadephul reiterated Germany’s official position that recognition of Palestinian statehood should come only after negotiations. However, he stressed that the peace process must now begin, and warned that Berlin “will also be forced to react to unilateral moves.”
Addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where more than two million people are facing famine, Wadephul called on Israel to allow significantly more aid into the territory. “This must happen immediately, comprehensively, and on a lasting basis,” he said, describing the situation as “dramatic.”
While Germany is preparing to take part in airlifts of aid in the coming days, Wadephul underlined that airborne deliveries are not sufficient. “Only by land can assistance reach the population in the necessary quantities,” he stated, adding that Berlin is pushing to re-establish overland access “as a matter of urgency.”
During his visit, Wadephul is scheduled to meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, and Prime Minister Netanyahu. He will also travel to the West Bank for talks with Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas.
