German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has expressed unusually strong criticism of Israel’s military intervention in Gaza.
Speaking at the Republica in Berlin on Monday, Merz acknowledged that Germany must maintain a certain level of restraint in its public statements to Israel, being as it is a close partner and a key player in the region. However, he emphasized that when the human rights of civilians are being blatantly disregarded, Germany’s Chancellor must not remain silent.
Merz believes that Germany has a high interest in maintaining its partnership with Israel and he believes the sentiment is mutual. He expressed a desire for the relationship to continue in a positive manner, but cautioned that the Israeli government should not take actions that might ultimately lead its closest allies to turn against it.