German Chancellor Advocates for Lasting Peace in Gaza During Jerusalem Visit

During an official visit to Jerusalem, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed confidence in the possibility of achieving lasting peace in the Gaza Strip, despite intermittent setbacks in the ongoing ceasefire. Merz met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the regional situation, humanitarian aid, and prospects for future stability in the area.

Merz emphasized Germany's commitment to supporting humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza and pledged assistance for the reconstruction of the heavily damaged coastal territory. He reiterated Germany's longstanding support for Israel, referencing the nation's historical responsibility stemming from the events of the Second World War. According to Merz, Germany remains steadfast in its commitment to the security and existence of Israel, a core aspect of bilateral relations between the two countries.

Addressing the political landscape in Gaza, Merz underscored that there should be no role for the Hamas organization in the future governance of the enclave. He referenced the October 2023 attack by Hamas, which prompted significant Israeli military operations in Gaza, and stressed the importance of adhering to international law in all military actions. Merz also noted that Germany expects Israel to conduct its operations in accordance with established international legal standards.

In discussions regarding the West Bank, the German Chancellor called for restraint, emphasizing that further annexation steps should be avoided. Merz's position reflects concerns within the international community about the potential for escalations that could undermine broader peace efforts in the region.

Prime Minister Netanyahu, while acknowledging new opportunities for peace in the Middle East, reiterated Israel's opposition to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Netanyahu stated that while there are pathways to expanded peace with Arab nations and potential for coexistence with Palestinian neighbors, Israel will not support the creation of a state that threatens its security. He also claimed that the so-called Iranian axis has been weakened following recent conflicts in the region.

In addition to political meetings, Chancellor Merz visited the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial, reaffirming Germany's enduring responsibility to Israel and the memory of Holocaust victims. In a message inscribed in the guest book, Merz highlighted the unbreakable link between Germany's historical legacy and its commitment to Israel's security.

As part of his visit, Merz also engaged with former hostages and families of individuals affected by the conflict with Hamas, further emphasizing Germany's solidarity with Israel in the aftermath of the 2023 attacks. Prior to returning to Berlin, the Chancellor reiterated his hopes for progress in the peace process and highlighted the importance of the current US-brokered ceasefire agreement, which is expected to move into a new phase involving the disarmament of militant groups in Gaza.

During earlier meetings with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Merz stressed the close ties between Germany and Israel and reaffirmed ongoing German support, even as he acknowledged differences in views regarding aspects of Israel's military strategy. Merz referenced the partial arms embargo imposed by his government in response to certain military actions, but emphasized Germany's unwavering commitment to Israel's right to self-defense and its security needs.

Overall, the visit underscored Germany's active diplomatic involvement in Middle East peace efforts, its humanitarian contributions, and its ongoing partnership with Israel against a backdrop of complex regional dynamics.