German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Thursday that recognising a Palestinian state now would send "the wrong signal", despite moves by other European countries in that direction.

Speaking at a Berlin press conference with his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar, Wadephul stressed German support for a two-state solution but said "negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians must be concluded" first.

Spain, Ireland and Norway a year ago recognised a Palestinian state and President Emmanuel Macron has said France could do so by June, leading Israel to accuse him of a "crusade against the Jewish state".

Germany, as it has sought to atone for the Holocaust, has long been one of Israel's most steadfast supporters, but has recently sharpened its criticism of its ally over the Gaza........

© Al Monitor