Former Israeli Ambassador to Germany, Shimon Stein, has characterized the recent decision by leading CDU politician Friedrich Merz to temporarily halt deliveries of certain arms to Israel as a reactive measure rather than a strategically considered policy shift.
In remarks published by the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung”, Stein stated he perceives the decision as stemming from immediate necessity and frustration, rather than a broader strategic calculation. While not interpreting the move as a fundamental break from established German foreign policy principles, Stein highlighted a complex dilemma facing Germany. He explained that the country is simultaneously committed to principles of international and humanitarian law while also maintaining a historically-rooted special relationship with Israel, often referred to as “Staatsräson”.
Stein suggested that past German policy had sometimes prioritized “Staatsräson” over other principles, but that Merz’s decision indicates a potential shift in emphasis, implying that even historically sacrosanct considerations are subject to reassessment.
The former ambassador also expressed concern regarding the current direction of the Israeli government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing it as a “wrong path”. He advocated for external signals to address his concerns, specifically calling for sanctions against Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, citing their repeated opposition to Palestinian self-determination and right to exist.
