German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to immediately allow more humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, amid growing concern over worsening conditions for civilians. The appeal came during a recent phone conversation, according to a statement from government spokesman Stefan Kornelius.
Merz also stressed the importance of reaching a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages, emphasizing that urgent humanitarian support must reach Gaza’s population safely and without delay.
Germany reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution as the only path to long-term peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
German officials have recently taken a tougher stance toward Israel, criticizing its handling of the crisis. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said last week that blocking food and medicine from civilians in Gaza violates international humanitarian law. He also noted that Israel had failed to uphold its May 25 commitment to ensure aid distribution via a new Israeli-American mechanism.
While Germany has traditionally stood firmly with Israel due to its historical responsibility, the current center-right coalition is adopting a more critical tone in light of recent Israeli military actions, the aid blockade, and calls from some Israeli leaders for the expulsion of Palestinians and annexation of land.
