Germany Signals Possible Fast-Track Recognition of Palestinian State

Germany has warned it may fast-track recognition of a Palestinian state if Israel proceeds with West Bank annexation, as European pressure mounts over Gaza's humanitarian crisis and potential EU sanctions.

Germany has indicated it may accelerate its recognition of a Palestinian state if Israel follows through on plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank. The warning came from Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul ahead of a two-day diplomatic visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, where he is expected to meet key regional leaders.

Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s long-standing support for a two-state solution, stating that Berlin still sees a negotiated outcome as the only viable path to lasting peace. However, he cautioned that Israel’s potential annexation of West Bank territory could render that objective impossible. “For Germany, recognition of a Palestinian state has traditionally been viewed as the end of the process,” he said. “But if Israel proceeds with annexation, the process must begin now.”

Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed these concerns following a meeting of Germany’s security cabinet, urging Israel to take immediate steps to alleviate what he called the “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He added that Berlin was considering further measures if the situation does not improve, though he stopped short of outlining specific actions.

Wadephul’s visit will include talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and senior officials in the Palestinian Authority, as well as a possible meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. His findings could influence Germany’s stance on whether to support European Union-level sanctions against Israel, potentially including restrictions on arms exports.

Meanwhile, momentum is building within the EU to suspend parts of its trade agreement with Israel, in protest against the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Several member states, including Spain, Sweden and Ireland, have openly called for punitive action. The EU is Israel’s largest trading partner, with trade volume reaching $47 billion last year, according to the International Monetary Fund. Any alteration to trade policy could have a significant economic impact.

While Germany has historically maintained a close alliance with Israel, growing discontent over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and fears of de facto annexation are beginning to shift political sentiment in Berlin and beyond. Observers say the outcome of Wadephul’s trip may prove decisive in shaping Germany’s future Middle East policy.

As European leaders harden their positions, the diplomatic landscape surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict appears to be entering a new and uncertain phase.