A prominent figure within Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) is urging the federal government to consider imposing sanctions on Israel, escalating calls for a firmer stance on the ongoing conflict. Siemtje Möller, Deputy Parliamentary Group Leader of the SPD, stated in an interview that she expects the government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the CDU, to back up its rhetoric with concrete action.
Möller suggested a range of potential measures, including the suspension of certain arms exports, sanctions targeting two far-right Israeli ministers – Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir – and even a partial suspension of the EU’s Association Agreement with Israel. She emphasized that these tools are at the government’s disposal and should be actively considered.
Her primary objective, she stated, is to alleviate the suffering of civilians in the Gaza Strip. A ceasefire remains paramount, alongside the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas. Möller expressed concern over the increasing international isolation of the Israeli government, asserting that Germany, along with its remaining allies, must maintain pressure and forcefully convey its demands. Given the dwindling number of supportive nations, she believes Germany’s influence is now even greater.
Regarding the possibility of recognizing Palestine as a state, Möller advised against it at this juncture, characterizing it as a symbolic gesture that would not provide immediate relief to Palestinians facing acute hardship. However, she affirmed that recognition should be integrated into a negotiated two-state solution, potentially occurring at an earlier stage rather than solely at the conclusion of such a process.
Möller recently returned from a trip to Israel with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. She is a member of the Seeheimer Kreis, a conservative faction within the SPD.
