New German ambassador to Israel starts term with Yad Vashem visit
Alexander Lambsdorff said the two nations share a ‘wonderful and incredible relationship,’ but recognised it was ‘built on a very painful history’
Assessment
The new German ambassador's first official act is a visit to Israel's Holocaust memorial, signaling the weight of history on bilateral ties. His acknowledgment of a 'painful history' alongside a 'wonderful' relationship underscores the careful diplomatic balance required. The visit sets a tone of remembrance for his term, without offering specifics on policy priorities.