Germany Says Palestinian State Should Result from Negotiations

Germany reaffirmed on Monday that it will not recognise a Palestinian state until Israelis and Palestinians negotiate a two-state solution.

The remarks come ahead of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where France is expected to become the latest country to recognise Palestinian statehood, following Australia, Britain, Canada, and Portugal, who announced their recognition on Sunday.

The wave of recognition aims to increase pressure on Israel over its military campaign in Gaza, which has:

• Killed tens of thousands
• Devastated large parts of the enclave
• Drawn criticism from Israel’s allies

The Israeli government has argued that recognising a Palestinian state would effectively reward Hamas for its unprecedented attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, which triggered the current conflict.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, en route to the UN in New York, emphasised: “A negotiated two-state solution is the path that can allow Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, security, and dignity. For Germany, recognition of a Palestinian state comes more at the end of the process. But this process must begin now.”

Germany’s foreign policy has historically prioritised support for Israel, reflecting its responsibility for the Holocaust.

However, Berlin has grown increasingly critical of Israel’s campaign in Gaza, particularly due to its impact on Palestinian civilians. The humanitarian situation has worsened in recent months, with the UN declaring famine in parts of the coastal territory.

More than 140 world leaders are expected to attend this week’s UNGA in New York, where discussions are expected to be dominated by the future of the Palestinians.