Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, German government deputy spokesperson Sebastian Hille announced that Chancellor Friedrich Merz had strongly condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s call for 30-40 attacks on Gaza every night.
Hille said Merz considered the remarks inhumane, contrary to international law and unacceptable.
Preparations for measures at the European level
Hille said the European Council had decided at its latest meeting to prepare targeted measures against radical politicians who call for actions contrary to human dignity and international law.
Hille said foreign ministers would discuss the issue at the Gymnich meeting and that possible measures at the European level would also be considered במסגרת this process.
Warning over annexation in the West Bank
Hille said Merz was following the latest steps taken by the Israeli government in the West Bank with great concern, adding that the German chancellor had repeatedly voiced this concern in the past.
Hille said Merz had stressed in his message that no new annexation step should be taken in the West Bank. He said that, alongside formal measures, political, planning or other measures should not lead to annexation, adding that such initiatives obstruct a two-state solution.
Hille also reiterated Merz’s call for Palestinians to be treated humanely, their property to be protected, and public services and humanitarian aid to be provided.