What is the expected attitude of the new German government, the first center-left government in 16 years, towards Israel?
The coalition agreement between the three member parties in the new government is spread over 177 pages, and includes a fairly detailed reference to the connection with Israel.
However, contrary to the coalition agreements of Angela Merkel's last two governments, the document makes no reference to the Jewish character of the State of Israel, a rather disturbing fact given the fact that Germany vehemently opposed the "Nationality Law".
"Israel's security is for us a supreme national interest," the agreement states, continuing the policies of Merkel's governments. On the beginning of normalization in relations between other Arab countries and Israel. "
The coalition agreement emphasizes that certain steps taken by both the Palestinian and Israeli sides make peace efforts difficult and should be avoided: "On the Palestinian side, we expect progress in the areas of democracy, the rule of law and human rights. This includes renouncing all forms of violence against Israel. Of the construction of settlements, which is contrary to international law. "
German Chancellor in her meeting with Prime Minister: "Looking to the future"; Bennett: "Relationship is stronger than ever" // Photo: GPO
Creating a comparison between Palestinian violence and the construction of Jewish settlements is another problem.
The question also arises as to which international law Germany bases its claim on a Jewish-free Judea and Samaria. In fact, a German government that welcomes the normalization of Arab-Israeli relations should have avoided opposing Jewish settlement everywhere, especially in light of German support for illegal Palestinian settlements like Khan al-Ahmar. .
The next German government undertakes to continue to fund the UNRWA, although for the first time this commitment also includes support for an independent oversight process of the agency's operations. It remains to be seen whether this commitment will be realized. Reference to any emissions.
The members of the new coalition also undertake to act decisively against antisemitic condemnations of Israel, including in UN institutions. Here, too, the test of reality will determine.
Schultz after voting in parliament, Photo: Reuters
In the case of Iran, the document states that the new government will work to quickly conclude negotiations on reviving the nuclear agreement with Iran.
Iran, the document states, must return to the full realization of its commitments to the international community.
"The threat to Israel, the missile program, the aggressive regional policy and the support for terrorism endanger peace and security," the agreement said.
The resumption of negotiations with Iran in Vienna does not provide cause for hope for a speedy successful conclusion.
Will the German government be willing to sacrifice the economic benefits it will derive from normalization with Iran, in order to maintain Israel's security?
It seems that the Greens, who want to close every possible nuclear plant, will also kneel before the Iranians to meet the needs of the German economy.
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