German Foreign Minister Wadephul Urges Immediate Two-State Process Amid Gaza Criticism

German Foreign Minister Calls for Urgent Two-State Solution

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has issued a strong condemnation of Israel's ongoing military offensive in Gaza City, describing it as 'completely misguided' and 'the wrong course of action'. Speaking in Berlin on Monday, September 22, 2025, before his departure for the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Wadephul emphasized the urgent need to initiate a two-state process with the Palestinians.

Wadephul, a politician from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) who assumed the role of Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs on May 6, 2025, reiterated Germany's long-standing commitment to a negotiated two-state solution. He stated, 'For Germany, recognition of a Palestinian state comes more at the end of the process, but this process must begin now.' He further stressed that 'A Palestinian state is our goal. We support the two-state solution. There is no other way.'

Germany's Stance on Recognition and Negotiations

While advocating for the two-state solution, Germany has consistently maintained that the recognition of a Palestinian state should be the outcome of direct negotiations between the Israeli and Palestinian parties. Wadephul highlighted that the path to peace is through 'dialogue, compromise and negotiation,' even if it appears difficult at this moment. His statements come as several other nations, including Australia, Britain, Canada, and Portugal, have recently recognized a Palestinian state, with France, Malta, and Luxembourg expected to follow suit during the UN General Assembly.

Additional Demands and International Context

Beyond the call for a two-state process, Minister Wadephul outlined several immediate necessities for the region. These include:

• An immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
• Significantly more humanitarian aid for the people in Gaza.
• The immediate and unconditional release of all Israeli hostages.

He also issued a stern warning against any steps towards the 'illegal annexation of occupied territories,' asserting that such actions would further undermine the prospects for a lasting resolution to the conflict. Wadephul is scheduled to attend a conference organized by France and Saudi Arabia in New York, aimed at bolstering support for the two-state solution. Germany, while upholding its historical responsibility to Israel, has become increasingly critical of the Israeli campaign in Gaza due to the worsening humanitarian situation.