A senior German Social Democratic Party (SPD) politician, Rolf Mützenich, has called on the German government to adopt a firmer stance towards Israel. Addressing the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, Mützenich expressed support for the European Commission’s proposals to suspend certain trade-related provisions, labeling them “urgent” and advocating for the German government’s backing. He suggested such measures could potentially influence Israel’s government to cease its indiscriminate actions, deemed in violation of international law, in both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
The European Commission’s proposal centers on the suspension of specific tariff advantages intended to increase pressure on Israel’s government regarding its operations in Gaza. The proposal has faced opposition within Germany, with elements of the Christian Democratic Union voicing their disagreement.
Regarding the potential impact of multiple governments recognizing a Palestinian state, Mützenich expressed skepticism. He suggested that past instances of recognition have often been followed by reticence and a lack of sustained follow-through on addressing the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasized that a viable state necessitates not only a population but also defined borders and a functioning administration, elements he believes remain distant prospects.
Mützenich prioritized a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages and an end to forced displacement. He further urged the German government to actively participate in the Franco-Saudi initiative aimed at achieving a sustainable resolution to the conflict and to ensure adherence to humanitarian international law, both in international forums and through the German judicial system.
