German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, during a visit to Israel, reaffirmed the “deep friendship” between Germany and Israel while simultaneously cautioning against escalating measures within the Palestinian territories. The visit, occurring amidst ongoing tensions surrounding the conflict in Gaza and evolving peace negotiations, highlighted a delicate balance in Berlin’s diplomatic posture.
Addressing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following a meeting on Sunday, Merz explicitly warned against any actions – formal, political, infrastructural, or otherwise – that could be construed as steps towards the annexation of the West Bank. This cautionary note underscores Germany’s longstanding opposition to unilateral actions that could derail the prospect of a two-state solution, a cornerstone of German foreign policy in the region.
The Chancellor’s remarks also addressed the recent suspension of weapons deliveries to Israel, a contentious decision within Germany that triggered significant political debate. Merz defended the initial pause, arguing that it was necessary “to send a signal” regarding the escalating violence and the need for a de-escalation strategy. He acknowledged the subsequent ceasefire in Gaza and emphasized the imperative to implement the second phase of the proposed peace plan.
However, Merz’s assessment of a post-conflict Gaza proved to be particularly salient. He insisted that “Hamas cannot play a role” in the territory’s future governance and that Gaza “must not pose a threat to Israel”. This statement, while aligned with Israel’s stated security objectives, raises critical questions about the viability of a sustainable peace without addressing the root causes of Hamas’s presence and widespread support within the Palestinian population. Critics argue that such a rigid stance risks perpetuating the cycle of conflict and undermining any genuine efforts at reconciliation. The Chancellor’s visit, therefore, exposed the complex realities of German-Israeli relations and the challenging task of reconciling security concerns with the pursuit of a lasting peace.
