German Government’s Antisemitism Commissioner, Felix Klein, calls for a more honest debate in Germany on the concept of “raison d’état” in the context of Israel’s controversial Gaza offensive.
In an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung, Klein emphasized the need to discuss the terms “raison d’état” and “existential right” more openly in Germany, as both are crucial for the country’s understanding of its relationship with Israel, but are also vague and hinder a clear debate.
Klein stressed that while it is essential to ensure the security of Israel and the Jewish people worldwide, this cannot be a justification for everything. He argued that the humanitarian situation in Gaza, deliberately worsened by the Israeli military, has nothing to do with the security of Israel and that it is unacceptable for the Israeli government to question the provision of humanitarian aid and medical care to the Gaza population.
The German government’s antisemitism commissioner also emphasized that Israel has the right to defend itself against the genocidal hatred of the Hamas, but the proportionality of the means used must be questioned. He called on Germany to stand by Israel’s side, not only out of historical responsibility but also due to humanity and to remind Israel of its democratic and international law obligations.
Klein rejected the idea of reviewing the partnership agreement with Israel due to the Gaza operation, as this would put Israel on the same level as countries like Russia or Iran, which he considers undemocratic. However, if Israel were found to have committed massive human rights violations, Germany would need to re-examine the association agreement, he said.