Germany is advocating for the commencement of a process toward a two-state solution, while maintaining its current position against formally recognizing a Palestinian state. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized the international community’s heightened focus on the Middle East, noting the lack of a clear path to resolving the conflict two years after the Hamas attack on October 2023.
Minister Wadephul stressed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire, significantly increased humanitarian aid for the population in Gaza and the unconditional release of hostages. He characterized the offensive on Gaza City as “the completely wrong approach” and warned that any steps towards an illegal annexation of occupied territories would undermine the potential for a lasting resolution.
While acknowledging the challenges, Wadephul reaffirmed the belief that a negotiated two-state solution remains the pathway to a future where Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace, security and with dignity. He clarified that the recognition of a Palestinian state remains a point for later stages of the process, but underscored the necessity of initiating that process now.
The stance follows recent announcements by several Western nations, including the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada, indicating a move towards recognizing a Palestinian state. Minister Wadephul is participating in a two-state conference in New York, held in advance of the UN General Assembly.