Following recent escalations in Gaza City, a leading voice within the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) has called on the German government to endorse stricter sanctions against Israel. Adis Ahmetovic, the SPD parliamentary group’s spokesperson for foreign policy, expressed concern over the expansion of military operations into Gaza City, describing it as unacceptable.
Speaking to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Ahmetovic argued that the continued disregard for international law by the Israeli government necessitates escalated measures. He specifically referenced proposals put forward by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, which include sanctions targeting extremist ministers and violent settlers, alongside the potential suspension of trade agreements.
Ahmetovic voiced serious warnings regarding the repercussions of the assault on Gaza City, stating it risks exacerbating civilian casualties, dramatically worsening the humanitarian situation for Palestinians and jeopardizing the prospects for the release of hostages held by Hamas.
He further suggested a lack of apparent willingness on the part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to pursue a peaceful resolution, citing Israel’s recent missile strikes on Qatar – a country actively engaged in mediating the conflict – as evidence. Ahmetovic concluded by asserting that Israel’s actions are contributing to increasing international isolation, with potentially long-term consequences beyond the Middle East.
