On Thursday, July 31, Germany’s foreign minister stated that recognition of a Palestinian state should follow negotiations toward a two-state solution, but warned that Germany would not remain passive if Israel took unilateral actions, especially in light of annexation threats made by some Israeli ministers.

Johann Wadephul made the remarks ahead of his visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, a trip described by Berlin as a fact-finding mission amid growing concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His comments represent one of Germany's strongest warnings to Israel to date, as several Western countries — including the UK, Canada, and France — consider recognizing a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September.

Despite this shift, some critics believe Germany’s response remains too cautious, influenced by historical responsibility for the Holocaust and a strong pro-Israel stance in parts of its media and political establishment. They argue this hesitance weakens the broader international push for meaningful pressure on Israel.

Wadephul reaffirmed that lasting peace in the region depends on a negotiated two-state solution, allowing a Palestinian state to exist peacefully alongside Israel. He emphasized that with increasing international support for unilateral recognition of Palestinian statehood, the Middle East is now at a critical turning point. If Israel moves forward with unilateral decisions, Wadephul warned, Germany will be forced to react accordingly.