The German government is establishing an air bridge to deliver food and medical supplies to the civilian population in the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) announced on Monday following a meeting of the security cabinet in Berlin.
The initiative is to be implemented in cooperation with Jordan and the German government, particularly Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD), will coordinate with the French and British governments. Chancellor Merz described the endeavor as “a small contribution” Germany can make.
While the announcement aims to address the dire humanitarian situation, aid organizations have voiced concerns regarding the efficacy of airdrops. Critics argue that the scale and quality of assistance delivered by air are insufficient to meet the urgent needs and that the capacity for transport is limited. There have also been reports of casualties resulting from falling packages.
During the security cabinet meeting, the humanitarian situation in Gaza was discussed with “great seriousness and unity” according to Chancellor Merz. He emphasized that Israel must immediately, comprehensively and sustainably improve the catastrophic conditions within Gaza and that further displacement of residents should be prevented.
Achieving a ceasefire, Merz stated, requires action from both the Israeli government and Hamas. The release of all hostages and the disarmament of Hamas are preconditions. Moreover, further steps towards the annexation of the West Bank should be avoided. Despite this, Chancellor Merz reiterated his continued opposition to the recognition of a Palestinian state, maintaining that such recognition should only occur at the conclusion of a negotiated agreement.
