Germany warns Israel about death penalty

German Foreign Minister Baerbock held a joint press conference with his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen in Berlin.

Emphasizing that they are concerned about Israel’s plans to enact the death penalty, Baerbock said: “We are absolutely against the death penalty and we are expressing it all over the world. Governments around the world are in the process of abandoning this brutal practice, in part because it has proven not to be a deterrent.” he used his statements.

Noting that only once in Germany has the death penalty been imposed against Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann, Baerbock said: “This has always been a compelling argument for those of us who defend Israel against unfair criticism in the international arena. That’s why I say this as a friend. I think it would be a big mistake to break with this date. The values ​​that unite us include the protection of the rule of law, such as the independence of the judiciary. This has always been Israel’s guide.”

Bringing up the issue of Iran at the press conference, Baerbock stated that Iran should never have a nuclear weapon, saying, “Iran is threatening the security of the entire Middle East. The nuclear tension is worrisome. Such a high level of uranium enrichment indicates that it cannot be used for civilian purposes. Iran must not be allowed to get a nuclear bomb.” he said.

Drawing attention to the tension between Palestine and Israel, Baerbock noted that for those who want the conflict to end, there is no other way than a two-state solution.

The German minister stated that Israel’s construction of new settlements on Palestinian land is an obstacle to peace and security.

“THE REFORM WE HAVE PLANNED WILL FURTHER IMPROVE OUR DEMOCRACY”

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said they will continue to open new Jewish settlements in the West Bank, as in previous Israeli governments.

Faced with criticism of the introduction of the death penalty, Cohen said: “Israel is a state of law. Israel is a living democracy. In Israel, people can protest and express their opinions whenever they want. Judicial reform is to strengthen our democracy. The reform we are planning will improve our democracy even more than before.” he used the phrase.

Noting that he asked Baerbock to classify the Iranian Revolutionary Guard as a “terrorist organization”, Cohen said: “Germany should send a clear message, only strong actions will have strong results.” saying.

Minister Cohen also stated that the option of a military intervention in Iran was not left off the table.

Expressing concern about Iran’s nuclear activities, Cohen argued that it is time to take steps to deter Iran from nuclear activities.

Noting that he visited kyiv 2 weeks ago, Cohen said:

“This visit once again showed that we support Ukraine. I met with Zelensky and conveyed our solidarity and support. I said that we would support the peace program within the framework of the UN. We support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.”

Noting that they can provide an early warning system to Ukraine, Cohen noted that they can share the high-tech defense systems produced by his country with their European and especially German friends.

Stating that they condemned the war waged by Russia, Cohen added that 600,000 Jews live in Russia and that Russia is a key country for them in the region.

Last week, Israel’s Legislative Ministerial Committee approved the bill introducing the death penalty for “terrorist criminals” in Israel. (AA)