Leading figures within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) are seeking a direct meeting with party leader Friedrich Merz following a decision by the Chancellor to partially restrict arms deliveries to Israel. The request, finalized over the weekend, comes from the collective of CDU/CSU parliamentary group leaders – encompassing those in state parliaments, the Bundestag and the European Parliament – according to reports in “Der Spiegel”.
The call for a meeting emerged following internal discussions, conducted via a dedicated messaging group, in the wake of both the Chancellor’s policy shift and the manner in which Merz communicated this decision within the party. Participants report expressions of concern regarding the altered course and a degree of dissatisfaction with the communication surrounding it. The decision to seek a personal meeting with Merz reflects a desire for direct clarification and internal dialogue on the matter. Members of the group have voiced concerns, both about the limitations placed on arms deliveries and the internal party messaging process.