Jens Spahn, the CDU parliamentary group leader, recently defended Germany’s policy toward Israel following the country’s failed attempt to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Speaking to the ARD’s “Interview of the Week” Spahn emphasized that Germany’s support for Israel remains firm. He stated that Israel is a partner state, describing it as one of the most significant and strong supporters of Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East, with whom Germany shares deep historical and current ties. If Germany is not selected by another nation, he stated he could accept it, adding, “Then I wouldn’t even want the vote in the first place”.
The defense of this stance came amid criticism directed at the German government, particularly accusations that it was not critical enough regarding Israel’s actions during the Gaza conflict.
Spahn also defended Health Minister Nina Warken’s plans for the upcoming care reform. He viewed the minister’s initiative as a heavy but necessary step, presenting a balanced package. He noted that while no one likes cutting services, the care insurance system is facing a severe financial crisis, currently running a “billion-euro deficit”. Because of insufficient economic growth, the necessary funding is unavailable, especially given a rapidly aging society. He pointed out that the number of people supported by the care insurance has soared from two million twenty years ago to six million today-a rise driven by both an older population and expanded benefits. He stressed that while more people benefit from the support, the system must remain financially viable.
When asked about potential future ambitions, including the chancellery, Spahn replied that he is content and fulfilled in his current role. He expressed a strong conviction in parliamentary work and finds the job of a parliamentary group leader enjoyable. He views parliament as “the heart of democracy” where the future of 84 million people is decided. Spahn enjoys leading Germany’s largest parliamentary faction. Regarding the state of the country, he confirmed that he sleeps well, directly contradicting the recent public narrative of the Chancellor. He dismissed the idea that celebrating minimal sleep-only four or five hours-is commendable, stating his mood and decision-making are better when he is well rested. However, he conceded that while good sleep is important, the state of the nation still concerns him.
