CDU Considers Shifting Stance on Sanctions Against Israel Amid Minister's Remarks

German politicians, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul of the CDU party, are urging the European Union to take a unified stance against Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Ben-Gvir recently made dehumanizing remarks about Palestinians in Gaza, stating they were not human and calling for the nightly elimination of 30 to 40 individuals.

Merz described Ben-Gvir's statements as "inhumane" and "unacceptable." Wadephul indicated that the EU level is the appropriate forum for addressing the minister's comments. While some EU member states have already imposed entry bans on Ben-Gvir, Germany has historically been hesitant to impose sanctions on Israel due to its past.

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Ben-Gvir's statements were inhumane and unacceptable.

The article raises the question of whether this situation signals a shift in the CDU's policy toward Israel. The remarks come amid ongoing discussions within the EU about potential sanctions against Ben-Gvir, which have been debated for several years. The German government's response suggests a growing willingness to consider measures against Israeli officials making such statements.

In a separate development, a ZEIT investigation reveals that some Ukrainian military recruits have deserted during their training in Germany. Since the start of the war, Germany has trained approximately 29,000 Ukrainian soldiers. The reports indicate around 80 desertion cases in Saxony-Anhalt alone. Deserters face up to twelve years in prison in Ukraine, where mobilization currently targets men aged 25 to 60.

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The EU level is the right framework for action against Ben-Gvir.