Evolution of “Alliance 90 / The Greens” Approaches to German Relations with Israel

Abstract

The article analyzes the transformation of approaches towards Israel among the German environmentally-conscious parties. The author focuses on the course of the “Alliance 90 / The Greens” from its formation to the present, when the party has become a part of the government. Additional attention is paid to the perception of Israel by its predecessors — the “greens” from the FRG and the GDR. The feasibility of studying the Middle East vector of activity of this political force is explained by the fact that throughout the history it has remained an attractive partner in the formation of government coalitions, choosing the portfolio of foreign minister. Moreover, the German “Greens” are also represented in the European Parliament, having an opportunity to participate in decision-making process at the supranational level. The article considers the specifics environmentally-conscious parties in Germany and Israel, retrospective of perception of the State of Israel by the party, the current political platform of the “Alliance 90 / The Greens” and the activity of its member A. Baerbock as German Foreign Minister. The author concludes that the German “Greens” agree with the need to adhere to the historical principles of bilateral relations, having different approaches with the Israeli government to the Middle East conflict resolution. At the same time, under the influence of the position of senior coalition partners, topical international issues and the need to strengthen its own positions within the country, the party is able to soften its rhetoric.