Germany and Israel Getting Cozy

On the 40th anniversary of German-Israeli diplomatic relations, Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom traveled to Germany to meet with German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer. While in Germany, both ministers “underlined their desire for even closer ties” (Deutsche Welle, May 19). They discussed “efforts to expand and deepen relations between Germany and Israel” (ibid.). To add more backbone to calls for a deeper friendship, Fischer reminded reporters that Germany is one of Israel’s most important trade partners and allies.

Ironically, Fischer also asserted that the two nations’ developing relationship must be based on the “memory and responsibility of history,” a reference to the Jewish Holocaust of World War ii.

In fact, it might seem incredible that an Israeli foreign minister is even discussing having stronger ties with its former archenemy. Wearied by its continual struggle to simply exist in a region surrounded by enemies, Israel will take any ally it can get.

This dialogue comes at a time when the EU is looking to assert its influence in a more dominant way globally. Watch for Germany to take a more active role in Israel and the Middle East peace process.

Unfortunately, both history and prophecy show that Israel’s reliance on Germany will have treacherous and disastrous consequences.