What’s happening:
Israel’s ambassador in Berlin, Ron Prosor, has expressed enthusiasm over the anticipated appointment of Friedrich Merz as Germany’s next chancellor. Merz, representing the center-right CDU/CSU alliance, is poised to enhance the already robust Israel-Germany diplomatic and strategic partnership by rejecting any form of weapons embargo against Israel, affirming the nation’s right to self-defense.
Why it matters:
Germany’s supportive stance is pivotal, given its historical context. After overcoming the Holocaust past, Germany stands as one of Israel’s most dependable allies in diplomatic and security spheres. The potential policies of Merz signal continued cooperation and support crucial in ensuring Israel’s security in a volatile region.
What they’re saying:
Prosor remarked, “Germany is our second most important strategic partner,” emphasizing hopes for constructive ties under Merz’s leadership. Merz himself has criticized any form of arms hold-ups as unacceptable, promising, “Whatever Israel needs for self-defense, they will get.”
Between the lines:
Prosor highlighted recent debates about arms export delays under current Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s administration, marking a deviation from Germany’s unwavering support as understood by the Israeli government.
State influence:
Prosor’s inclusion at the Conference of Minister Presidents illustrates deepening ties at both state and federal levels, acknowledging 60 years of bilateral camaraderie.
The bigger picture:
While Israel-Germany relations strengthen, concerns about rising extremist parties in Germany remain. These shifting political tides signal potential challenges ahead if current mainstream parties fail to address vital national issues like economics and immigration, underscored by Germany’s youth voting trends leaning towards the political fringes.
What to watch:
Prosor concluded, addressing contacts with elements like AfD, “The nation-state of the Jewish people must carefully evaluate discussions, maintaining both moral considerations and strategic alliances.” The unfolding internal dynamics within Germany could influence its foreign policies and by extension, its relations with Israel.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.