Pressure is mounting within Germany’s political landscape regarding the nation’s stance on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Social Democratic Party (SPD) is now publicly urging the government to join a declaration signed by 28 nations calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a review of humanitarian aid provisions.
SPD General Secretary Tim Klüssendorf, in an interview with “Welt” television, articulated the party’s rationale, stating that upholding international law is a paramount concern. He argued that the current course of the conflict appears to be in violation of those principles.
Klüssendorf emphasized that the SPD has repeatedly voiced concerns about Israel’s actions in Gaza over several months, primarily due to the severe impact on civilian populations. He expressed frustration that previous critiques have yielded limited effect, suggesting that Germany’s failure to endorse the joint declaration warrants serious consideration, given the shared desire to alleviate the suffering.
While acknowledging the responsibility for foreign policy currently rests with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) under Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Klüssendorf dismissed the notion that the SPD’s position would be dictated by the ruling coalition. He asserted the party’s commitment to its views and the necessity of a frank discussion on the matter.
The SPD representative underscored the party’s continued support for the state of Israel and recognizes Hamas as the instigating factor in the escalation. However, he maintained that criticizing the actions of an Israeli government perceived to be in violation of international law does not equate to abandoning the fundamental cooperation with the nation.
A general arms embargo against Israel was rejected, with Klüssendorf affirming the importance of contributing to Israel’s defensive capabilities. The SPD’s concern, he clarified, centers specifically on preventing German weapons from being used within Gaza.
Beyond the SPD, a growing unease with the German government’s Israel policy is also emerging within the Foreign Ministry itself. According to reports in “Der Spiegel” approximately 130 diplomats, predominantly younger professionals in the 30-40 age range, have formed a group advocating for a firmer stance against the Israeli government. This group, operating under the motto “loyal nonconform” communicates through online channels and holds regular meetings.
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed the existence of this group, disclosing that senior officials Géza von Geyr and Bernhard Kotsch have engaged in informal discussions with them shortly after assuming their roles. A meeting with Foreign Minister Wadephul is currently in the planning stages. During a recent staff meeting in July, a representative of the group presented their perspectives to Minister Wadephul, receiving a positive response from colleagues.
The group is proposing the establishment of a “dissent channel” within the ministry. This type of channel, which facilitates the expression of dissenting opinions, is utilized by the U.S. State Department. The intention is to allow diplomats to critique official government policies without fear of repercussions, although the efficacy of such channels has been debated, particularly in light of recent developments in the United States.
