Merz stresses importance of friendship with Israel, looks forward to next phase of Gaza plan

During his first trip to Israel as Germanys Chancellor, Friedrich Merz underscored Germanys steadfast support for the Jewish state. Speaking in Jerusalem at a meeting with President Isaac Herzog, Merz acknowledged the challenging circumstances surrounding his visit. I come to Israel at a time of extraordinary complexity, he said.

Merz reaffirmed Germanys commitment, especially in light of the horrific Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, stating that Germany will "always stand by Israel." At the same time, he acknowledged that Israels military operations in Gaza have created certain dilemmas for Germany, a reference to the temporary limitations on arms transfers to the country. Nonetheless, Merz emphasized that there are no fundamental disagreements, affirming that Israel has the right to self-defense.

Addressing the U.S. peace plan for Gaza, Merz expressed hope that it could move forward, stressing the importance of disarming Hamas. If Hamas lays down its weapons, there is a future for the region, including Gaza, he said. He reiterated Germanys support for a two-state solution, envisioning peaceful coexistence between Israel and an independent Palestinian state.

President Herzog highlighted the potential of the Gaza plan to offer new opportunities for both Israelis and Palestinians, as well as for neighboring Arab nations. He noted Germanys significant role, including its deployment of the Israeli-made Arrow 3 missile defense system, describing it as unique, deeply moving, and important.

In the Presidents guestbook, Merz wrote that the friendship between Germany and Israel is a great treasure and emphasized Germanys ongoing responsibility to maintain strong ties, eight decades after the Shoah. He expressed gratitude for his close relationship with Herzog and his commitment to strengthening the bilateral bond.

Visit to Jordan

Prior to Israel, Merz visited Jordan, where he discussed the Middle East peace process with King Abdullah in Aqaba. He welcomed the stabilization of the Gaza ceasefire after more than two months but stressed the need for the next phase to tackle Hamas support networks. Merz praised Jordans role in regional stability and highlighted Germanys security cooperation with the country.

He also addressed the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza, noting that more aid is required ahead of winter. Merz emphasized that Germany is monitoring the West Bank situation closely, insisting that any steps toward annexation there must be avoided to preserve the prospect of a Palestinian state. He called for a new regional order in which Israelis, Palestinians, and neighboring Arab nations could coexist in peace and security.

Merz reaffirmed Germanys backing for a two-state solution and stressed the urgency of resuming negotiations. He is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and will visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, a traditional element of a German chancellors inaugural visit. Additionally, Merz plans to meet former hostages from Gaza and relatives of those killed in Hamas captivity.

Author: Gavin Porter