German Chancellor Merz and Netanyahu Disagree on Palestinian Statehood

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented contrasting perspectives on Palestinian statehood during a recent visit to Jerusalem. Merz advocated for the establishment of a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution, while Netanyahu dismissed the notion entirely.

During a joint press conference on October 29, 2023, the leaders articulated their divergent views regarding the future of both Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Merz, on his inaugural official visit to Israel, emphasized Germany’s commitment to supporting a Palestinian state, stating that negotiations should commence immediately. Despite being a leader of one of Israel’s staunchest allies, he stopped short of labeling the current military actions in Gaza as genocide, a term used by some critics of the Israeli government.

Netanyahu responded firmly, asserting that the Israeli public largely opposes a two-state solution. He remarked that the annexation of the occupied West Bank remains a subject of internal debate within Israel, despite a lack of immediate plans for such actions. “The purpose of a Palestinian state is to destroy the Jewish state,” he claimed, without providing further elaboration.

The Israeli Prime Minister also mentioned that the first stage of the former U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan is “nearly complete.” He indicated that he anticipates “very important conversations” later in December regarding the next steps of this plan and is scheduled to meet with Trump later this month.

Germany’s Commitment to Israel’s Security

Before his meeting with Netanyahu, Merz visited the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial, where he reiterated Germany’s historic commitment to Israel’s security. He acknowledged his country’s “enduring historical responsibility” stemming from the Holocaust and emphasized the importance of standing up for Israel’s existence and security.

Merz arrived in Israel on October 28, 2023, and was greeted at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport by Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who described him as “a friend of Israel.” Following his visit to Yad Vashem, Merz met with President Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem. His packed schedule reflects the shifting political landscape in the region and Germany’s role as a key ally of Israel.

This visit underscores the complexities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the differing views held by international leaders on potential solutions. As tensions in the region continue, the dialogue between Germany and Israel remains crucial in shaping future relations and responses to ongoing conflicts.