Germany Resists EU Pressure to Rethink Israel Ties Amid Gaza Conflict

Germany is facing mounting pressure within the European Union to support a reassessment of its cooperation agreement with Israel, as criticism over the situation in Gaza intensifies. Despite growing calls from several EU member states to reconsider the bloc’s formal ties with Jerusalem, Berlin has taken a firm stance against punitive diplomatic measures.

According to a report published on May 22, several EU countries—including Ireland, Spain, and Belgium—have urged the European Commission to review the 2000 EU-Israel Association Agreement, citing alleged violations of international humanitarian law by the Israeli government. The initiative includes calls to suspend preferential trade provisions and increase scrutiny of Israeli actions in Gaza.

Germany, however, remains opposed to such moves. Foreign Ministry officials in Berlin argue that punitive steps would damage long-standing diplomatic relations and reduce the EU’s ability to act as a constructive mediator in the Middle East.

“We believe dialogue and engagement remain essential,” a German government spokesperson said. “Isolating Israel will not advance peace or humanitarian relief efforts.”

The debate has exposed deep divisions within the EU over how to respond to the escalating crisis in Gaza. While some member states favor a more assertive stance, others—led by Germany, the Czech Republic, and Hungary—are urging caution, citing concerns about further destabilization in the region.

The EU-Israel Association Agreement, signed in 2000, forms the legal basis for trade and political cooperation. Any changes would require unanimous consent among EU members, making a formal revision unlikely without German support.

The German position comes amid growing domestic scrutiny of the government’s stance. Human rights organizations and opposition lawmakers have questioned Berlin’s reluctance to confront Israel more directly, especially in light of civilian casualties in Gaza.

This internal and external pressure places Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration at a diplomatic crossroads, balancing its historic alliance with Israel against evolving expectations from European partners and domestic constituencies.