The German weekly Der Spiegel reported that German Chancellor Angela Merkel may be changing her country’s long-standing policy of unconditional support for Israel due to Berlin’s growing frustration vis-à-vis the policies of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu.

Germany has been a staunch ally of Israel since the two nations officially began diplomatic relations in 1965. However, recent policy decisions pertaining to yishuvim throughout Yehuda and Shomron have elicited the ire of the international community, including Germany. In addition, the stalled diplomatic talks between Israel and the PA (Palestinian Authority) is another bone of contention for the German leader.

Ynet reports that a German government official has released a statement that this is not so and Merkel is not reevaluating Germany’s relationship with Israel, contrary to the Der Spiegel report.

France has recently stepped in [again] announcing a Mideast peace summit, expressing disappointment with the lack of negotiations between Israel and the PA towards a final status agreement. French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault explained his country was acting in “good faith” by hosting the peace initiative.

Israel has since announced in a message from the Prime Minister’s Office that only direct talks with the PA will result in an agreement.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)