Ahead of Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, a leading voice within the Social Democratic Party (SPD) parliamentary group, Adis Ahmetovic, has called for a firm stance regarding Israel. Speaking to “Der Spiegel”, Ahmetovic expressed concern that plans by the Israeli government for complete occupation of Gaza, if realized, would drastically exacerbate the existing humanitarian crisis. He stated that the German government needs to move beyond mere admonishments and take decisive action.
Ahmetovic cautioned against the potential for a wider regional conflict, warning that such an escalation would lead to increased hunger, casualties and, critically, jeopardize the release of hostages. He highlighted that former hostages and family members of those still held have repeatedly voiced opposition to the government’s proposed war plans. He underscored that these developments should compel the federal cabinet to adopt a more resolute approach.
Expanding on the potential course of action, Siemtje Möller, Vice-Chair of the SPD parliamentary group, previously outlined several possibilities in an internal letter to fellow parliamentarians. Proposed measures include suspending the European Association Agreement with Israel, imposing direct sanctions against right-wing Israeli cabinet members and halting arms exports to Israel. Möller also suggested that the recognition of a Palestinian state should not be considered a prohibited topic for discussion.