Merz Urges Israel to End Civilian Suffering in Gaza
(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sustained his pointed critique of Israel's renewed military campaign in Gaza on Tuesday, urging Tel Aviv to take immediate steps to alleviate the plight of Palestinian civilians.
Speaking during a joint press briefing with Finnish Premier Petteri Orpo in Turku, Finland, Merz stressed the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance in the region.
“We are more than concerned about the intensification of the Israeli army's military activities in Gaza, and we are appalled by the terrible suffering of the civilian population there,” Merz stated, expressing deep unease over the worsening humanitarian conditions.
Merz voiced skepticism about the strategic logic behind Israel's continued offensive, saying, “As I said yesterday, the massive military strikes by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip no longer make any sense to me in terms of how they serve the goal of fighting terror and freeing the hostages. And in this respect, I view what has happened in recent days very, very critically.”
His comments indicated increasing doubt over the effectiveness of the current military approach.
The chancellor also underlined that Berlin is maintaining direct communication with Israeli leaders, pressing for greater access to aid for civilians in Gaza.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring basic needs like food availability and clean water delivery for the population under siege.
Despite his sharp tone, Merz reaffirmed Germany's unwavering support for Israel's security and its fundamental right to exist—a policy upheld by all past German administrations.
He clarified that expressing concern over military tactics does not conflict with this longstanding stance.
"And I'm not the first to voice these," he noted, before adding, “I believe that every German government must be extremely cautious about making public statements on this matter, but I think the time has come to speak out about these incomprehensible events currently taking place there."
His remarks suggested a shift toward more open criticism amid growing international concern.
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