Germany’s Foreign Minister Criticizes Israeli War Efforts, Threatens Consequences
Germany’s Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, has intensified his criticism of Israel’s war efforts in the Gaza Strip, warning that the German government will reconsider its arms sales to the country. In an interview with the Süddeutsche Zeitung, Wadephul expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in the region, stating that the influx of humanitarian aid is merely a “drop in the ocean.” He emphasized that the focus should be on upholding fundamental human rights, particularly for the sick, the weak and children, who are the first to suffer.
Wadephul condemned the Israeli government’s actions, saying that the country must defend itself against external threats, such as the Huthi, Hezbollah and Iran, but that the means used in the Gaza Strip do not align with humanitarian law. The minister announced that Germany will re-evaluate its arms sales to Israel, with the possibility of a partial halt, pending the outcome of this review.
The criticism comes ahead of a visit by Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, to Berlin next week. Wadephul also cautioned against excessive criticism of the United States under President Donald Trump, urging Germany to exercise restraint and humility. He noted that the US is a much older democracy and a more established rule of law and that Germany, as a European nation, should be mindful of its own shortcomings.
The minister expressed confidence that the German government will agree to a significant increase in defense spending, a goal set at the NATO summit in June. He stated that the goal of increasing defense spending to 5% of the national budget by 2032 is uncontentious within the coalition and that the coalition agreement explicitly commits to implementing NATO decisions.