Merz stated on German official television that “Germany has stood by Israel for 80 years, and nothing will change that,” emphasizing that his country will continue to support Israel in defending itself.
Last Friday, the chancellor announced the suspension of military equipment exports that could be used in the Gaza Strip, in response to Israel’s plan to take control of Gaza City. This decision sparked objections within the party, including from its youth organization, which considered it contrary to the basic principles of the party and Germany.
This step comes at a time when Israel enjoyed broad political support in Germany, a country that continues to atone for the crimes of the Nazi regime against the Jews. Unlike France, Britain, and Canada, it was noted that this should be the result of direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians.
In recent months, Merz has adopted a tougher stance towards Israel, amid increasing UN warnings of the risk of famine in the Gaza Strip, asserting that Germany’s solidarity does not mean agreeing with all Israeli government decisions or supporting it militarily without reservation.
