Germany reaffirmed on Monday that it will not recognise a Palestinian state until a negotiated two-state solution is reached between Israelis and Palestinians, distancing itself from a growing number of Western countries moving toward recognition.
The statement came as global attention turns to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where France is expected to join a wave of countries—including Australia, Britain, Canada, and Portugal—that recognised a Palestinian state on Sunday. The coordinated move is intended to increase diplomatic pressure on Israel over its ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has left tens of thousands dead and much of the territory in ruins.
Israel has strongly opposed these recognitions, arguing they reward Hamas and its unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack, which triggered the current conflict.
Speaking before departing for the UN summit, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul reiterated Berlin’s position. “A negotiated two-state solution is the path that can allow Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, security and dignity,” he said.
“For Germany, recognition of a Palestinian state comes more at the end of the process. But this process must begin now,” he added.
Germany, whose foreign policy has long prioritised support for Israel due to its historical responsibility for the Holocaust, has nonetheless become more vocal in its criticism of the war in Gaza. As civilian casualties mount and the humanitarian crisis worsens—prompting the UN to declare famine in parts of Gaza—Berlin has expressed growing concern over the conduct of the Israeli campaign.
This year’s UN General Assembly summit is expected to be dominated by debate over the Palestinian question, with more than 140 world leaders in attendance and a sharp focus on prospects for peace and statehood in the region.
SR
