Germany Holds Off on Recognizing Palestine, Stresses Need for Negotiated Peace
As diplomatic momentum builds in parts of Europe for recognizing a Palestinian state, Germany has made it clear: it will not follow suit—at least not anytime soon.
On July 25, 2025, the German government reiterated its position that official recognition of Palestine can only come as part of a negotiated two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. While affirming its long-standing support for the creation of a Palestinian state, Berlin emphasized that recognition must be part of a broader peace agreement and not a unilateral political move.
German officials say that statehood is a long-term goal, but it cannot be declared in isolation. “Recognizing Palestine at this moment would not help achieve peace,” said Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in a recent press conference held alongside his Israeli counterpart. According to him, doing so now would “send the wrong signal” and risk undermining prospects for future negotiations.
This position places Germany in contrast with several of its European neighbors. In 2024 and 2025, countries such as Spain, Ireland, Norway, and Slovenia took the step of formally recognizing Palestine. France is also expected to do so soon, with President Macron preparing a major announcement at the UN General Assembly in September 2025.
Despite these developments, Germany is choosing a more cautious path. The German government has consistently stated that Israel’s security is a core principle of its foreign policy, and that recognition of Palestine cannot come at the expense of regional stability or Israeli safety.
A Balancing Act Between Principles and Politics
Germany’s approach reflects its difficult balancing act: upholding its post-Holocaust commitment to Israel’s security, while also advocating for Palestinian self-determination. Officials in Berlin stress that their aim is not to delay Palestinian statehood indefinitely, but to ensure it is achieved through meaningful dialogue.
In addition to concerns about Israel’s security, Germany is wary of recognizing a Palestinian state while the militant group Hamas still holds power in Gaza. The German Foreign Ministry has said that without a reformed and unified Palestinian leadership, and without a clear peace process in motion, recognition would be premature.
At the same time, Germany has joined international calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, for the release of hostages held by Hamas, and for a massive increase in humanitarian aid. Officials say these are the immediate priorities, and that any discussion of statehood must follow—not precede—those steps.
Pressure at Home and Abroad
Germany’s stance is not without its critics. Earlier this year, the Berlin branch of the ruling Social Democratic Party passed a resolution urging the federal government to recognize a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital. Palestinian leaders welcomed the move as a positive sign, though it holds no legal weight over national policy.
Internationally, Germany faces increasing pressure to align with European partners who believe that recognizing Palestine could help break the diplomatic stalemate. These countries argue that recognition sends a strong political message and helps level the playing field between Israelis and Palestinians. But for now, Berlin disagrees.
Although Germany is not prepared to take the step now, officials say the idea of recognizing Palestine is not ruled out. Rather, it is being deferred until there is a genuine and sustainable peace process.
In the meantime, Germany continues to support the two-state solution as the only viable path to long-term peace. For Berlin, the priority is not symbolism, but substance: a Palestinian state that emerges from a negotiated peace, enjoys international legitimacy, and ensures security for both peoples.