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Visit to Israel by Foreign Minister Wadephul – regional issues and historical responsibility
Außenminister Johann Wadephul und der israelische Außenminister Gideon Sa’ar (07.07.2026). © Photothek Media Lab
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is meeting his Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa’ar today before travelling to the NATO Summit in Ankara. His visit to Israel takes place against the backdrop of urgent regional issues, but also of Germany’s historical responsibility for Holocaust remembrance.
A close partner in difficult times
For both strategic and historical reasons, Israel is a close partner of Germany. The State of Israel is under threat from many sides, be it by antisemitism or regional conflicts. Germany has a responsibility to take these threats seriously and support Israel in its security.
Focus on regional matters
The pressing questions of regional security in the Middle East can only be answered within a framework of shared understanding among all the countries involved. My aim is to help foster understanding and lasting peace in the region.
-- Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul
The situation of the people in Gaza continues to be a cause for concern and must not be forgotten. Now, in the summer, the vital access to clean water is particularly crucial for the people in Gaza. To ensure this, humanitarian aid workers need better access and more opportunities to supply their aid. Foreign Minister Wadephul will call on the Israeli Government to facilitate this.
The agreement between Israel and Lebanon creates hopes for an end to the decades-long conflict. Germany is supporting both sides on this path, with the clear expectation that Lebanon will exert its state monopoly on the use of force and that security guarantees will be created for Israel.
Germany and Israel are also continuing to monitor the negotiations between the US and Iran. Although a ceasefire has been achieved, consolidating it remains a challenge. It is up to Iran to expedite constructive talks in order to bring about long-term détente in the region.
Historical responsibility: Israel and Germany – a special relationship
Relations between Germany and Israel are deeply rooted in the past. They can never be seen independently of the responsibility that Germany bears for the security of the only Jewish state in light of the Shoah – that most atrocious crime against humanity committed by Germans. Part of this responsibility is to oppose any form of historical distortion or relativisation. Holocaust remembrance and civic education, including for younger generations, are a key component of the partnership between Germany and Israel. During his visit, Foreign Minister Wadephul will further strengthen and expand cooperation with Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Centre.