The parents of Itay Chen, a German-Israeli citizen held captive in Gaza for the past 675 days, have appealed to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, urging a more proactive German role in securing the release of all hostages.
In an open letter reported by Bild on Wednesday, the family expressed confusion and concern regarding the German government’s recent decision to partially suspend arms exports to Israel. They argue this move appears counterproductive to the liberation of the seven German nationals currently held captive, including their son. Chen, a 19-year-old grandson of Holocaust survivors from Bad Reichenhall, was killed and abducted during the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023. Israeli authorities estimate approximately 50 hostages remain in Gaza.
The parents contend that the German government has not sufficiently engaged in negotiations led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt. They point to what they perceive as a lack of direct contribution to securing the hostages’ release, contrasting Germany’s approach with that of countries like France and Russia. The letter questions why Germany has not joined US sanctions against supporters of Hamas’ military wing, increased pressure on Qatar and Egypt, or held Turkey more accountable for its alleged role in facilitating financial support.
The family also expressed frustration with what they consider insufficient public awareness regarding the plight of German nationals among the hostages. “What is your government doing to raise public awareness that German citizens are victims of terrorism?” they ask. They warn that Germany’s perceived reluctance could send a signal to terrorist groups worldwide, implying that German citizens are vulnerable targets. The parents implore Merz, “as a politician, father and grandfather” to utilize all available resources to bring the hostages home. The appeal follows a recent Israeli government decision to temporarily occupy the Gaza Strip, leading the German government to temporarily halt approvals for new arms exports to Israel.
