Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the urgency of pressuring the Israeli government to allow humanitarian aid to enter the region
A, which has historically been an ally of, recently expressed its disapproval of the military offensive in Gaza. During a visit to Finland, Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Israel’s attacks lack logic and that the current situation is incomprehensible. He emphasized the urgency of pressuring the Israeli government to allow humanitarian aid to enter the region. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also positioned himself against the blockade of essential inputs in Gaza. He stressed that support to Israel should not be used as a justification for war, indicating a significant change in the posture of the German government. Merz and Wadephul suggested that Germany should evaluate possible actions in response to the humanitarian crisis.
The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, joined criticism, describing the Israeli attacks as “abominable.” This new stance reflects an increase in critical voices in Europe compared to Israel’s strategy in Gaza, signaling a possible change in the continent’s political dynamics. Germany’s most critical posture may have repercussions on bilateral relations with Israel, especially considering that the country is one of the main suppliers of weapons for the Israeli nation. Although the discussion of possible measures against Israel is ongoing, it is still unclear whether Germany will unite concrete initiatives in this regard.
Posted by Sarah Paula
*Report produced with the aid of AI
