Calls for a cessation of German arms exports to Israel are growing, fueled by concerns over the escalating situation in Gaza. Dietmar Bartsch, a prominent parliamentarian from the Left party (Die Linke), has publicly stated his opposition to any weapon deliveries, particularly to regions experiencing crisis. Speaking to RTL and ntv broadcasters, Bartsch emphasized the party’s stance against providing arms to conflict zones, explicitly including shipments to Israel.
While acknowledging initiatives calling for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to endorse a declaration from approximately 30 nations advocating for an immediate halt to the conflict in Gaza, Bartsch expressed skepticism regarding the declaration’s significance. He believes Germany’s influence in facilitating a resolution is limited.
Bartsch suggests that the United States holds a more impactful position in resolving the conflict and urges German leaders to exert pressure on Washington to actively pursue a solution.
The use of the term “genocide” to describe Israel’s actions in Gaza by some within his own party has been disavowed by Bartsch, who noted contentious debate surrounding the terminology at the party’s recent convention. He maintains that the party convention should focus on policy decisions rather than definitions.
