German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has reaffirmed his decision to restrict arms deliveries to Israel following recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza that resulted in the deaths of several journalists.
Speaking at the Chancellery on Tuesday, Merz stated, “The massive attacks by the Israeli army against the city of Gaza have had consequences, as we have seen in recent hours”. While expressing his belief that a deliberate targeting of journalists was unlikely, he emphasized the necessity of a thorough investigation by the Israeli army and government, the results of which he intends to await before reaching a final judgment.
He acknowledged that the recent events are a direct consequence of both the military actions initiated by Israel in Gaza days ago and the governmental decisions made nearly two weeks prior. Merz expressed concern that similar incidents could become more frequent in the coming days and weeks as the Israeli military continues its operations.
“In this respect, I feel more than confirmed in my assessment and in my decision that Israel will not receive weapons from Germany that can be used in the Gaza Strip under these conditions” he said.
The Chancellor added that “what the Israeli government is doing there and what the Israeli army is doing in executing what the Israeli government wants, is not acceptable” and that yesterday’s events cast a serious shadow over what he acknowledged as otherwise justified action against Hamas.
