Merz condemns Israel’s violations of international law

(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz strongly criticized Israel on Wednesday for breaching international law and conducting aggressive military operations, stating that Berlin will consult with EU partners before deciding on any potential sanctions.

Speaking alongside EU Council President Antonio Costa at a press conference in Berlin, Merz condemned Israel’s airstrikes targeting Hamas’ negotiating team in Doha, Qatar, and underscored Qatar’s key role in mediating ceasefire efforts in Gaza. “This was a military strike by the Israeli army that violated international law, that violated the territorial integrity of Qatar, which is a country that, more than most others, has endeavored to play a mediating role in this conflict and has been very helpful so far,” Merz said.

While affirming Germany’s historic responsibility for Israel’s security due to the country’s Nazi past, Merz stressed that this commitment does not preclude criticism of certain policies enacted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, including the extensive military campaign in Gaza and limitations on humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians.

When questioned about Germany’s stance on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent proposal—which recommends sanctioning Israel’s extremist government ministers and violent settlers, as well as partially suspending the free trade agreement—Merz noted that these issues would be considered both domestically and with EU partners in the coming days. “Regarding sanctions, I would like to first await the internal discussion within the European Council, as well as the discussion within our coalition government. We in the coalition agree that Israel's actions are unacceptable. Our foreign minister also reiterated this last night. This is our shared conviction,” he said.

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