German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that not all of Israel’s actions in Gaza in recent months and years can be considered acts of self-defense.
Merz said Germany must defend Israel’s right to exist more resolutely today and stated that he would not back down from this position.
Germany-Israel reconciliation
Merz described the reconciliation between Germany and Israel as one of the most important achievements his country has made since the end of World War II, saying that the process took place after horrific events.
Merz said Israel’s offer of a helping hand to Germany was not something that emerged on its own.
Criticism of the E1 project under international law
Merz also opposed the E1 settlement project, which he said aims to separate East Jerusalem from the West Bank.
The German chancellor said developments in the E1 area violate international law and that Berlin has made its position on the issue clear and unequivocal.
Restrictions on arms deliveries to Israel
Emphasizing that Germany’s support for Israel is not unconditional, Merz recalled that Berlin decided in August last year to restrict arms deliveries to Israel.