Germany and Israel: A Friendship Tested by the Gaza War
If the Germany-Israel relationship had a social media status, it would be “It’s Complicated.” This bond, forged in the darkest chapter of history, has been meticulously nurtured for decades, built on Germany’s iron-clad promise to support Israel’s security. However, the current Gaza war has introduced a palpable tension, and to navigate this, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz recently visited Israel to reaffirm his support while voicing growing concerns.
Understanding global politics can be challenging, but the friction between these allies offers a clear view into the complexities of upholding historical commitments in a rapidly changing world.
A Historic Bond Tested by Conflict
What is Staatsräson? It’s Germany’s “reason of state,” a policy that makes protecting Israel’s existence a core part of its national identity. This isn’t just a political stance; it’s a profound moral and historical obligation stemming from the Holocaust, underpinning Germany’s steadfast political and military support for the Jewish state.
In the immediate aftermath of the October 7th attacks, Germany’s response was swift. Chancellor Scholz was among the first to condemn the terrorism, assuring Israel, “We’ve got your back.” But as the war continued and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsened, Germany’s tone began to shift.
The change was gradual. First, there was increased emphasis on international law. This was followed by calls for “humanitarian pauses,” which eventually evolved into requests for a “longer-lasting ceasefire.” This shift, aligning with global sentiment, created friction with Jerusalem. It highlighted a difficult dilemma: how to balance a historical duty to an ally with the role of a global advocate for human rights? It’s the diplomatic equivalent of trying to support a grieving friend while also cautioning them about their actions.
Scholz’s Diplomatic Tightrope Walk in Jerusalem
Upon arriving in Israel, Chancellor Scholz faced a delicate balancing act. His mission was to convey a dual message: “We support you, but we need to address the situation in Gaza.”
His agenda included high-stakes meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, aimed at getting their “war-battered ties back on track.” Scholz’s key messages were clear:
- Solidarity with an Asterisk: He reiterated Germany’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense against Hamas but immediately added a crucial caveat. He stressed that military objectives cannot justify the immense civilian cost and that Israel must develop a plan for the “day after” the conflict.
- Urgent Call for Humanitarian Aid: A significant focus of his visit was the dire need for more humanitarian aid in Gaza. Voicing grave concerns about a potential famine, he urged Israel to allow a massive influx of food, water, and medicine—a major point of contention with the international community.
- Revisiting the Two-State Solution: Scholz brought up the two-state solution as the only viable long-term path to peace. This position is in stark contrast with Israel’s current right-wing government, which largely dismisses the idea.
A Frank Dialogue and the Path Forward
The public statements following the meetings had a tense undertone. Prime Minister Netanyahu remained firm, asserting that Israel’s military actions are essential to dismantle Hamas. Chancellor Scholz, while acknowledging this, reiterated his concerns about the humanitarian consequences.
Criticism from a close, historically significant ally like Germany carries more weight. It cannot be easily dismissed. By visiting in person, Scholz demonstrated that true friendship involves having difficult conversations, not just symbolic gestures.
The fundamental disagreements persist. Israel is operating from a mindset of deep trauma and prioritizing security, while Germany is trying to remain a loyal friend without compromising its commitment to a rules-based international order.
So, Where Do We Go from Here?
The situation remains a work in progress.
- Domestic Pressures: Both leaders are managing complex domestic politics. The German public is increasingly critical of the war’s humanitarian toll, while the Israeli government is under immense pressure to secure the release of hostages and claim a decisive victory.
- The Humanitarian Clock: Germany, alongside the U.S. and the E.U., will continue to press for increased aid to Gaza. Israel’s response in the coming months will be a critical test for the relationship.
- The Two-State Divide: This remains the most significant long-term obstacle. Germany views the two-state solution as the only sustainable path to peace, while key figures in Israel’s government see it as a security threat. Bridging this gap will require immense effort.
Chancellor Scholz’s visit did not resolve these deep-seated issues, but it was a crucial step in keeping the lines of communication open. In a relationship this significant, maintaining a dialogue is, in itself, a small victory.