Merz Skips UN General Assembly Amid Gaza Stance Criticism

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has faced growing scrutiny for his absence from the UN General Assembly this week, a notable decision amidst escalating criticism regarding Germany’s position on the Israel-Gaza conflict. While Merz remains in Berlin to oversee a Bundestag debate and vote, many observers suggest that this absence allows him to sidestep uncomfortable inquiries about Germany’s foreign policy, particularly its hesitance to recognize Palestinian statehood.

Johann Wadephul, Germany’s Foreign Minister, has stepped into the spotlight in Merz’s absence, representing the country at the UN. He criticized the recent moves by the UK, France, Belgium, and others, stating they represent “the completely wrong approach” to the ongoing conflict. Wadephul emphasized the urgency of initiating a peace process between Israelis and Palestinians, stating, “But such a process must begin now.” He plans to advocate for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid for Gaza, along with the unconditional release of all remaining Israeli hostages during his time in New York.

Wadephul also voiced opposition to Israeli plans for further settlements in the occupied West Bank, highlighting that any steps toward annexation of occupied territories that violate international law jeopardize the prospects for a sustainable resolution to the conflict. Since taking office, Merz has maintained that the prerequisites for recognizing a Palestinian state have not been met “even in the smallest way.”

Despite Merz’s absence, Germany is still well represented at the UN. Former Green Party Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is currently the president of the General Assembly and has characterized this week’s high-level gathering as an opportunity to confront the reality that “the Israeli-Palestinian conflict cannot be resolved by endless war, continued occupation and terror.”

Critics are beginning to question whether Merz’s decision to remain in Berlin reflects a deliberate strategy to avoid the complexities of the current situation. Franziska Brantner, co-leader of the Green Party, remarked to the Sueddeutsche Zeitung that Merz could have demonstrated his commitment to Israel’s security by attending the assembly. She suggested that by not participating, he risks appearing to play a double game in international diplomacy.

The discourse in Germany regarding the Gaza conflict has shifted notably in recent weeks, particularly following the government’s decision to impose limits on arms exports. Observers have pointed out that while Bundestag debates keep Merz occupied in Berlin, Wadephul is making the transatlantic journey to engage in diplomatic discussions—something that critics argue should be a priority for the Chancellor himself.

As tensions continue to rise, Germany’s approach to the Gaza crisis remains under scrutiny both internationally and domestically. The government’s alignment with the current Israeli administration has attracted significant criticism, leading to concerns that Berlin may be entangled in a stalemate with a government perceived as dominated by political extremists.

Officials acknowledge that these complexities will pose challenges for German diplomacy this week in New York, particularly as Germany seeks to bolster its bid for a rotating seat on the UN Security Council. As the situation evolves, how Merz navigates this diplomatic landscape will likely influence both his leadership and Germany’s international standing.