Merz Shifts Germany’s Policy on Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

URGENT UPDATE: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has dramatically altered Berlin’s stance towards Israel following the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks, emphasizing that Germany’s historical responsibility pertains to the state of Israel, not its government. In an exclusive interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine newspaper, Merz asserted that Israel’s security “was and would remain” a critical component of Germany’s foreign policy.

This pivotal change comes amid increasing scrutiny of Germany’s alignment with Israel during the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Merz stated that it is the duty of each German government to reassess how to uphold this responsibility, referencing the term Staatsräson (reason of state), a concept previously articulated by former Chancellor Angela Merkel to signify Germany’s enduring obligation to Israel’s security.

As tensions escalate, Merz’s comments signal a significant shift in the political landscape. Just a year ago, he condemned the previous Scholz administration for halting arms exports to Israel, labeling it a betrayal of Germany’s duties during “its most precarious hour.” Since assuming office in May 2023, however, Merz has adopted a more cautious approach, reflecting the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Merz’s recent critique of the Israeli Defense Forces’ military tactics in Gaza and the imposition of a limited arms export freeze to Israel have drawn fire from hardliners within his own party. This change has been underscored by commentary from Prof. Josef Schuster, head of the Central Committee of Jews in Germany, who urged that Germany’s support for Israel should not be contingent on the policies of its current government. In a significant speech marking the 75th anniversary of his organization, Schuster emphasized, “There’s a good reason why it is called reason of state and not reason of government.”

This evolving narrative has raised alarms within Germany as societal tensions increase. Schuster’s remarks reflect a growing concern that linking Germany’s support for Israel to the Netanyahu administration could incite backlash against Jewish communities in Germany.

In a noteworthy address to the Bundestag, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul echoed these sentiments, criticizing Netanyahu’s foreign policy as “unwise” and reiterating that Germany’s Holocaust history demands a commitment to the security of Jews and the state of Israel, irrespective of the governing body.

The international community has closely monitored Germany’s shifting stance, especially in light of public criticism from both opposition parties and factions within the government. Analysts suggest that Merz recognizes that the term Staatsräson is fraught with complexities and may ultimately yield more confusion than clarity.

NEXT STEPS: As tensions continue to rise in the region, observers will be watching closely for further policy changes from the German government. The impact of Merz’s administration on Germany’s diplomatic relationships and its role in Middle Eastern geopolitics is yet to fully unfold.

With significant developments occurring rapidly, it is imperative for international audiences to stay updated on the evolving situation in Germany and its implications for Israel and the broader Middle East.