The German government does not intend to recognize a Palestinian state for the time being. Foreign Minister Wadephul sees such a step as far from being taken. Nevertheless, there could be increased pressure on Israel.

From the German government's perspective, recognizing a Palestinian state at this point in time makes no sense."The German government remains convinced that only a negotiated two-state solution will bring lasting peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians," said government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius. Recognition of a Palestinian state is a step that comes at the end of negotiations, not at the beginning.

Also because much remains open: Within what borders will a Palestinian state be recognized by Israel? Who will be accepted as political leader? Not only internationally, but also in the region. What status will East Jerusalem receive?

Wadephul shows understanding for France

In an interview with the ARD Capital Studio, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul made it clear that"the formal recognition of a Palestinian state should take place when it has emerged and is recognizable." However, we are still a long way from this point.

The Foreign Minister understands that France is now exerting pressure:"France sees the great danger that a Palestinian state will become impossible due to unilateral steps by Israel. This also includes annexation plans, which have now unfortunately at least been approved in the Knesset, even if they do not yet have legal significance. We share France's concern." But not the procedure.

Between resistance and support

The reactions of various CDU/CSU MPs were less diplomatic. They viewed the French president's move as sending the wrong signal. CSU General Secretary Martin Huber believes it rewards Hamas for its terror.

The chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Armin Laschet, expressed himself similarly on n-tv:"Those who now feel empowered are the Hamas people who say, look, we're getting the Palestinian state without laying down our weapons, without agreeing to a ceasefire. I believe that, unfortunately, with regard to the war in Gaza, it will have no impact at all on the suffering population. Because things are only getting worse now."

The political left sees things differently. Left Party leader Jan von Aken emphasizes that France's recognition of Palestine is an important sign. Both he and BSW leader Sahra Wagenknecht are calling on the German government to follow suit so as not to become complicit in war crimes and starvation deaths.

What levers does the federal government have?

Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan tries to defuse the discussion. Macron's move comes as no surprise. She sees it as a political signal. An opportunity to talk more about a two-state solution again. However, other priorities now have priority:"The most important thing now is the humanitarian situation. It's obviously about a ceasefire and the release of the hostages."

The German government is in constant dialogue with the Israeli government and its international partners, according to a statement. It is prepared to increase pressure if progress is not made.

What this means in concrete terms has been left open by both the Development Minister and the Foreign Minister. However, there has already been much discussion about possible levers: from a halt to arms deliveries to the decision to support a Spanish EU initiative. This involves putting a key trade and cooperation agreement between the EU and Israel on hold. Spain is one of the countries that has already recognized Palestine as a state.