Germany’s foreign minister has threatened unspecified measures against Israel over the Gaza crisis, as Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a sharp rebuke to Israel’s actions. The move comes after massive air strikes and shortages of food and medicines in Gaza have made the situation “unbearable”.
Historically, Germany has felt special responsibility for Israel due to its legacy from World War II. However, this stance is shifting as German public opinion also becomes increasingly critical of Israel’s conduct since October 2023.
A survey by Civey found that over half of Germans oppose weapons exports to Israel, with only 51% in support. This shift in government stance reflects a broader growing opposition to Israel’s actions, both domestically and internationally.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with attacks killing dozens recently and the population facing worsening hunger and starvation. Efforts to revive a short-lived ceasefire have made little progress, leaving room for diplomatic efforts to address the crisis.
Chancellor Merz has proposed hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on German soil, despite an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court. The German comments are significant given that Merz had previously promised to defy the ICC in this regard.
While details of Germany’s next step remain unclear, the country is signaling its intention to re-evaluate its relationship with Israel over its actions in Gaza.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/germany-shifts-tone-israel-over-incomprehensible-gaza-carnage-2025-05-27