Germany’s Labor Minister Bärbel Bas has defended the federal government’s decision to limit arms deliveries to Israel, while also urging improved communication within the CDU/CSU opposition party regarding the matter. In a recent interview, Bas dismissed accusations leveled against CDU leader Friedrich Merz suggesting a betrayal of Israel as “a strong accusation” emphasizing the continued importance of supporting Israel. However, she simultaneously highlighted the need to acknowledge the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, asserting Germany’s responsibility to consider the welfare of those affected.
Bas advised the Chancellor to foster clearer internal dialogue within the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, noting the current public disagreements are counterproductive. She expressed disappointment that the governing coalition appeared to be mirroring the fractured communication seen in previous administrations, a situation she hoped to avoid.
The SPD leader also addressed ongoing tensions within the governing coalition, specifically concerning the recent process surrounding the selection of a new Constitutional Court judge. Bas sharply criticized the proceedings, stating the matter remains unresolved and has created divisions within her own party and parliamentary group. She called for a thorough clarification of the events.
When directly questioned about her level of trust in Jens Spahn, the parliamentary group leader for the CDU/CSU, Bas acknowledged that trust had been damaged and indicated a discussion on the matter was forthcoming.
