German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered his strongest criticism yet of Israel’s massive airstrikes on Gaza, calling them “no longer justified” or “comprehensible” in the fight against Hamas. Speaking at a news conference in Finland on Tuesday, Merz’s remarks reflect a growing shift in public opinion and a greater willingness among German leaders to question Israel’s actions since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks.
Merz’s foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, voiced similar concerns, while the Social Democrats, a junior coalition partner, have urged a halt to arms exports to Israel to avoid complicity in war crimes.
This change in tone is significant for Germany, which has historically upheld a policy of special responsibility towards Israel due to the Holocaust legacy. Germany, alongside the U.S., has been a staunch Israeli ally, but Merz’s comments come amid EU reviews of Israel policy and warnings from Britain, France, and Canada about possible actions over Gaza.
Merz said, “The massive military strikes by the Israelis in Gaza no longer reveal any logic to me. How they serve the goal of confronting terror, I view very critically.” He added that it was time to speak out publicly against what is happening.
Notably, Merz had previously promised to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu despite an ICC arrest warrant. He also keeps a photo in his office depicting a Hamas attack site from 2023.
Merz plans to speak with Netanyahu this week amid ongoing Gaza violence and growing humanitarian concerns. When asked about German arms exports, he deferred to the security council.
Israel’s ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, acknowledged Germany’s concerns but made no commitments, calling Merz “a friend” whose criticisms are “listened to carefully.”
Public sentiment in Germany is also shifting. A recent survey found 51% oppose arms exports to Israel, and only 36% of Germans view Israel positively, compared to 60% of Israelis who view Germany positively.
via Reuters