The Union party has defended its stance on potential sanctions against Israel, specifically backing Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) in the current debate. CDU security politician Roderich Kiesewetter told the news portal T-Online that the criticism leveled against Wadephul by the SPD was “little helpful.” Furthermore, Jürgen Hardt, the foreign policy spokesman for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, supported Wadephul, characterizing his position as “balanced.”
The discussion intensified recently after EU ministers in Brussels deliberated on new EU sanctions regarding the expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Germany and several other nations made it clear that they currently oppose the proposed options for import restrictions or outright bans. This position prompted the SPD to critique Wadephul in the newspaper “Spiegel”.
CDU politician Hardt stated that the Federal Government is generally “open to sanctions against radical settlers who illegitimately occupy areas in the West Bank.” However, he cautioned against broader measures. “A general withdrawal of customs benefits for Israeli goods is not sensible,” Hardt told T-Online. He pointed out that Israel is facing significant economic difficulties since October 7, 2023. “Such a step would cause great damage to Israel and all people in Israel-whether Jewish, Muslim, or Christian.” He also noted that other EU member states had expressed opposition to the import restrictions.
Kiesewetter, the CDU security politician, asserted that Wadephul and other Union members have “always criticized the progressive settlement policy of the Israeli government, without any doubt.” Nonetheless, he strongly dismissed the EU sanctions and trade restrictions being discussed in Brussels, labeling them “simply the wrong path.” He argued that these policies would not advance the complex regional situation.
Kiesewetter suggested that Europe could contribute to the region’s stability by stopping the financing of Iranian proxies and terrorist structures and by preventing the misuse of EU funds. He indicated that it is prudent to await the Israeli elections scheduled for autumn. His aim, he stated, must be to find new, constructive avenues for cooperation with a newly elected Israeli government-one he hopes will not include ultra-right-wing participation. He concluded that the threat of sanctions is damaging “this important channel.”
