German Chancellor Merz in Israel: Reaffirming Friendship Amidst Gaza Policy Tensions
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Israel on Saturday, December 6, 2025, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office in May, emphasizing Germany’s enduring commitment and deep friendship with Israel. The multi-day tour, which also included a stop in Jordan, occurred during a period of considerable complexity, where relations between the two nations are under strain due to the ongoing Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip. During a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem, Chancellor Merz confirmed Germany’s continued support for Israel, specifically referencing the "terrible massacres of October 7, 2023." Merz inscribed a dedication in the guest book at the President's Residence, stating, "The friendship between Germany and Israel is a great treasure." He further articulated that eight decades after the Shoah, "it is our responsibility to strengthen the connection between our countries from generation to generation," informs by NT24.
In his discussions with President Herzog, the head of the German government openly acknowledged that the tactics employed by the Israeli army within Gaza have presented Germany with “a series of dilemmas.” He pointed to actions taken by Berlin to address these concerns—a thinly veiled reference to the previously implemented, though subsequently reversed, partial suspension of arms deliveries to Israel. Despite these acknowledged points of difference, Merz maintained that no fundamental disagreements currently exist between the two nations. The Chancellor also specifically commended the mediation efforts undertaken by Jordan's King Abdullah II.
The leaders also addressed the peace plan for Gaza put forth by U.S. President Donald Trump. Merz expressed cautious optimism that the peace process could transition into its subsequent phase, though he strongly stressed the indispensable condition of Hamas’s total disarmament. He clearly stated, “This war is being waged exclusively by Hamas.” Merz highlighted that a viable future for the region, including Gaza, is achievable only if Hamas lays down its weapons. President Herzog, for his part, conveyed optimism that the proposed plan could forge a path forward for the residents of Gaza and Israel, as well as for the neighboring Arab states. Herzog also acknowledged Germany's decision to deploy the Israeli Arrow 3 missile defense system in Europe, describing the move as “unique, very moving, and important.”
A packed agenda awaits the Chancellor on Sunday. In the morning, Friedrich Merz is scheduled to visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial to pay tribute to the victims of the Holocaust. This will be followed by a planned meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, set to commence at 11 a.m. local time (9 a.m. GMT). Merz announced his intention to use the meeting as an opportunity to advocate for the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—a political outcome that Netanyahu and key members of his government have repeatedly and categorically dismissed.
Furthermore, the Chancellor is expected to make an urgent appeal to Israel to facilitate the provision of additional humanitarian aid for Gaza. The increasing tensions in the West Bank are also scheduled for discussion. Before his flight back to Berlin, Merz plans to meet with former hostages who were abducted by Hamas, as well as with the families of victims who died in captivity.
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