Berlin: Germany on Wednesday declined to support new sanctions against extremist Israeli occupiers, despite their growing violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told reporters in Berlin that Germany's opposition to Israel's illegal settlements is well known and has been repeatedly conveyed to the Israeli government, but Berlin has no plans to back additional sanctions.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wadephul stated, 'We have clearly told the Israeli government that we believe this illegal settlement policy should not continue and that projects such as E1, in particular, violate the entire Oslo process.' He emphasized that Germany continues to draw attention to these issues and currently believes that their stance is being heard in Israel, making other measures unnecessary for the time being.

Wadephul was asked about the possibility of the EU discussing new measures next week, following recent sanctions announced by the UK, Australia, Canada, France, New Zealand, and Norway targeting networks involved in financing and enabling violence by settlers against Palestinians. He replied negatively, acknowledging past sanctions on settler organizations and noting that such discussions occur at the European level. However, he did not indicate any imminent policy changes.

Germany, a steadfast supporter of Israel, has thus far resisted implementing stricter sanctions on Israeli politicians promoting the expansion of illegal settlements and plans for annexing the West Bank. Berlin has also blocked initiatives to suspend the EU-Israel trade agreement, arguing that maintaining open channels for dialogue and directly raising concerns with Israeli counterparts is a more effective approach.