German Chancellor Friedrich Merz: Gaza Situation Unacceptable

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in a press conference held in Berlin on July 18, 2025, emphasized that the situation in Gaza was no longer acceptable. Merz expressed his deep concern about the impact of Israeli military campaign in the region, and called for the need for immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian assistance for Palestinians. This statement is consistent with the new attitude of Germany which is more critical of Israel’s actions in recent weeks, in the midst of increasing the concern of the international community for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Following the extended military attack, Merz described the situation in Gaza as a tragic, where nearly 59,000 Palestinians were reported dead and more than 100,000 others were injured, most of them were women and children. “The action in the Gaza Strip we can no longer accept,” said Merz in a serious tone when discussing the steps that need to be taken. He stressed the need to ensure access to humanity that was not hampered for people trapped in conflict.

In his efforts to find a solution, Merz explained that he had held talks with other European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, to develop a strategy that enabled the realization of a ceasefire. “We want to help the country (Israel), but we also state clearly and firmly what is not acceptable,” Merz added.

As part of his statement, Merz also criticized the restrictions on humanitarian assistance by Israel, as well as military operations that were considered detrimental to civil society. He asserted that Germany would not support the proposed sanctions from several European Union members, such as Spain and Ireland, preferred a diplomatic approach to resolve the situation.

Answering criticism regarding multiple standard accusations in the application of sanctions, Merz stated that the situation between Russia and Israel could not be compared. He argued that Israel was a democratic country that defended himself against the attacks he received. “If they don’t do it, the state of Israel will no longer exist at this time,” he said. This statement illustrates the complex position taken by Germany, which has been known as a loyal supporter of Israel, but now feels the need to voice concerns over humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

The ongoing crisis also brings special attention to the survival problem of 1.9 million Palestinians who are currently displaced, struggling against lack of food, medical supply, and other basic needs. Israeli military actions and blockade that were imposed further aggravated the existing crisis.

At the international level, the Gaza situation has led to the submission of genocide cases against Israel in the International Court of Justice, a step that highlights the seriousness of the alleged human rights violations. This action is the basis for many countries, including Germany, to discuss diplomatic ways in overcoming these prolonged conflicts.

With his actions and statements, Merz tried to create a balance between support for Israel and moral responsibility for Palestinians. He is committed to continuing to establish dialogue with European partners to find a fair and sustainable solution. In this increasingly complex global context, diplomatic efforts made by Germany show that there is an awareness of the in -depth impact of the humanitarian crisis that took place in Gaza.