Berlin rules out new measures against Israeli settlers in West Bank

Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has ruled out the possibility of Berlin implementing new measures against Israeli settlers engaging in violence in the West Bank.

Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, Wadephul stated that the German government believes its concerns are being heard by Israel. "At this moment, the government considers that our voice is heard in Israel and that, for the time being, no other measures are required," he said, following a meeting with his Hungarian counterpart. This stance contrasts with recent actions taken by other European nations.

Wadephul reaffirmed Germany's commitment to international law, emphasizing that the government has clearly communicated to the Israeli government its view that the "illegal settlement policy must not continue." He specifically mentioned projects like E1 as potential violations of the Oslo process, referencing a settlement plan that could divide East Jerusalem from the rest of the West Bank and disrupt Palestinian territorial contiguity.

“

At this moment, the government considers that our voice is heard in Israel and that, for the time being, no other measures are required.

The minister noted that any sanctions Germany participates in are typically debated and agreed upon within the European Union framework. He pointed to the EU's sanctions against Israeli individuals and entities for abuses against Palestinians, approved in May, as an example of collective action.

Wadephul's comments diverge from calls by organizations like Amnesty International for stronger measures against Israel, including its government officials, over alleged "ethnic cleansing" of Palestinian Bedouins. He also acknowledged but did not adopt initiatives like the one announced by the United Kingdom, which imposed sanctions on six entities and one individual linked to settler violence. France has also indicated the EU might adopt new sanctions soon, while Spain has suggested a reassessment of EU-Israel relations.

“

We have a clear position regarding international law. We have clearly told the Israeli government that we consider that this policy of illegal settlements must not continue and that, in particular, projects like E1 would constitute a violation of the entire Oslo process.