Top German diplomat insists two-state solution must precede recognition of Palestine
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has reaffirmed the country’s position that it would not recognise the state of Palestine until the Israelis and Palestinians negotiate a two-state solution.
“A negotiated two-state solution is the path that can allow Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, security and dignity,” Wadephul said as he left for the UNGA in New York.
“For Germany, recognition of a Palestinian state comes more at the end of the process. But this process must begin now,” he said.
In light of its historical responsibility for the Holocaust, Germany has made support for the state of Israel a cornerstone of its foreign policy.
While Berlin has grown increasingly critical of the Israeli campaign in Gaza and its effect on Palestinian civilians in the past months, it has been opposing any significant action against Israel.
You did not wait to recognize the state of Israel until they negotiated a path to allow Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, security and dignity...
Germany warns Israel against further annexation of occupied West Bank
As reported earlier, a number of world officials are warning Israel against expanding its annexation of the occupied West Bank in response to countries recognising Palestinian statehood.
Joining the chorus is now Germany’s government spokesperson, saying there must be no further annexation of Palestinian territory by Israel.
The comments come as Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said he would raise the issue of annexing the Palestinian territory at the next cabinet meeting after Canada, the UK and Australia recognised the state of Palestine.
And earlier this month, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich pitched the annexation of 82 percent of the West Bank.
