German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that Israel is becoming increasingly diplomatically isolated due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and mounting international pressure for the recognition of a Palestinian state, AFP reported. In a statement ahead of his visit to Israel, he emphasized that the recent United Nations conference dedicated to the two-state solution — boycotted by the United States and Israel — demonstrated that “Israel is increasingly finding itself in the minority.”

Germany is among Israel’s most loyal diplomatic allies, but Wadephul warned that “in light of open threats of annexation by some members of the Israeli government, an increasing number of European states are prepared to recognize a Palestinian state without prior negotiations.”

Last week, more than 70 Israeli lawmakers, including members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc, passed a resolution calling on the government to impose sovereignty over the occupied West Bank.

Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s traditional position that “recognition of a Palestinian state must be the final stage of the negotiation process.” At the same time, he struck a firmer tone, stressing that “this process must begin now” and that “Germany will also be forced to respond to unilateral actions.”

During his visit, Wadephul is expected to meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, President Isaac Herzog, and Prime Minister Netanyahu. He will also visit the West Bank, where he is scheduled to hold talks with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. | BGNES