Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing mounting pressure from within his own coalition and from international partners to take a firmer stance on Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza. Criticism has intensified following Germany’s decision not to sign a joint statement issued by 29 Western nations that condemned the rising civilian toll in Gaza and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Key figures from the Social Democratic Party (SPD), including integration minister Reem Alabali-Radovan and several members of parliament, have publicly voiced disappointment with Merz’s reluctance to join the declaration. They argue that Germany’s current position is not aligned with growing international consensus and call for more concrete actions such as suspending arms exports to Israel and reevaluating agreements under the EU-Israel Association pact.
In response, Chancellor Merz has defended his government’s diplomatic approach, stating that Germany had already voiced similar concerns during a European Council statement in June and continues to express its criticism through private diplomatic channels. Merz has also emphasized Germany’s unique historical responsibility to Israel, which he believes necessitates a balanced and cautious approach.
Despite his defense, Merz’s public rhetoric has notably shifted in recent weeks. In a national address and subsequent public remarks, he stated that Israel’s actions in Gaza can no longer be justified and labeled the civilian casualties as unacceptable. His remarks mark a significant departure from Germany’s traditionally strong support for Israel.
The growing internal and external pressure places Merz in a politically sensitive position. His government must navigate between upholding Germany’s post-Holocaust commitment to Israel and responding to increasing demands for accountability and human rights protection in Gaza.
Germany’s position also has broader implications for the European Union. Several EU nations, including Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands, have taken a more critical stance on Israel’s Gaza operations, pushing for sanctions and political consequences. Germany’s hesitation to adopt similar measures risks isolating it within the EU and undermining a unified European response.
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, political analysts expect Germany to face further scrutiny in the coming weeks. Observers will be watching closely for any shift in policy, particularly concerning arms exports and future EU-Israel cooperation.