Germany Condemns Turkish Foreign Minister's Remarks Against Israel Ahead of NATO Summit

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul sharply criticized recent comments by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan against Israel, calling them "completely inappropriate." Wadephul emphasized Israel's right and duty to protect its citizens amid ongoing regional threats. His condemnation followed a request from Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and comes ahead of Wadephul's planned visit to Israel on Tuesday en route to the NATO summit in Turkey.

Last Thursday, Fidan told CNN in Turkish that Israel has become a problem for the entire international community and insisted Turkey would not back down from its stance. He described Israeli authorities as an unbearable burden on humanity. Sa'ar responded by labeling Fidan's statements as clear incitement to genocide and dehumanization of the Jewish people, urging NATO allies, including Turkey's partners, to unequivocally condemn these calls for Israel's destruction.

These remarks add to the harsh criticism Turkey has directed at Israel since October 7. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also weighed in this week, rejecting Israeli recognition of the Armenian genocide and accusing Israel of crimes against innocent Gazans. Erdoğan defended Turkey's history as one of compassion and refuge for the oppressed, denying any record of oppression or genocide.

Wadephul's condemnation signals Germany's support for Israel amid rising tensions with Turkey, a NATO member hosting the upcoming summit. The diplomatic exchanges highlight the growing strain in Israeli-Turkish relations and the broader geopolitical challenges facing the alliance.