German Opposition Leader Brantner Calls for Sanctions Against Two Israeli Ministers Over Brutal Gaza Attacks
Berlin, June 11, 2025:
Franziska Brantner, co-leader of Germany’s Green Party and a prominent opposition figure, has called on the German government to impose sanctions against two far-right Israeli ministers, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, in response to their roles in the brutal attacks on Palestinians in Gaza.
In an interview with the German news agency DPA, Brantner stated, “Smotrich and Ben-Gvir are openly inciting violence against Palestinians and supporting policies of occupation and displacement.”
She further emphasized, “These policies are not only causing the deaths of innocent civilians but are also leading to the forced displacement of the entire Palestinian community, creating a major obstacle to peace efforts in the Middle East.”
Brantner urged the Berlin government to coordinate with other European nations to impose sanctions on the two Israeli ministers. “Germany must take a clear stance against leaders who violate human rights and international law,” she said.
Smotrich and Ben-Gvir have long held extreme positions in favor of Israeli occupation and the removal of Palestinians, drawing strong international criticism. The demand for sanctions against them is gaining new traction within German political circles.
According to analysts, several EU countries are already considering sanction measures against the two ministers. Should Germany join this initiative, it could significantly increase diplomatic pressure on Israel.
