In a notable shift, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has publicly criticized Israel’s military offensive in the Gaza Strip, expressing confusion over the goals of the Israeli army and condemning the increasing harm to civilians. During an interview, Merz stated, “To harm the civilian population to such an extent, as has increasingly been the case in recent days, can no longer be justified as a fight against Hamas terrorism.”
Historically, Germany has been one of Israel’s closest European allies, with its leaders viewing Israel's security as a Staatsräson, or "reason of state," due to the nation's Nazi past. However, Merz's comments suggest a potential reevaluation of the German government's position amid growing humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where an ongoing blockade has placed many residents at risk of starvation.
Merz acknowledged that Germany must exercise restraint in its public advice to Israel but emphasized the importance of the German chancellor speaking out when international humanitarian law is violated. He indicated plans to discuss Israel’s renewed military actions in an upcoming call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating, “We have a great interest in remaining at Israel’s side, but the Israeli government must not do anything that its best friends are no longer prepared to accept.”
The debate over Germany’s military support for Israel is intensifying, with some lawmakers from the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD) calling for an end to arms exports to Israel. SPD foreign policy spokesperson Adis Ahmetovic remarked that “German weapons must not be used to spread humanitarian catastrophes and to violate international law.”
Adding to the discourse, Felix Klein, Germany’s commissioner for combating antisemitism, has called for a “more honest discussion” regarding Germany's interpretation of its Staatsräson in relation to Israel. He stressed the necessity of safeguarding Israel’s security while asserting that actions leading to the starvation of Palestinians cannot be justified.
Earlier this month, the leaders of the UK, France, and Canada issued a joint statement condemning the "intolerable" humanitarian situation in Gaza and urging Israel to halt its intensified military campaign. In response, Netanyahu countered that the demands made by the leaders offered a "huge prize" for Hamas's attack on October 7, further complicating the dialogue surrounding the ongoing conflict.
As tensions rise and the humanitarian crisis deepens, the need for accountability and a unified approach among international allies remains paramount in addressing the situation in Gaza.
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