Germany Slams Israel’s Gaza Strikes as ‘No Longer Justifiable’/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned Israel’s Gaza strikes as “no longer comprehensible.” The remarks reflect shifting German public opinion and growing political pressure. More than half of Germans now oppose weapons exports to Israel, new surveys show.
Germany’s Stance on Israel Shifts: Quick Looks
- Merz’s Breakthrough Critique: From Finland, the chancellor called Israel’s strikes on Gaza unjustifiable.
- Political Repercussions: Germany’s traditional pro-Israel stance, rooted in Holocaust legacy, is being re-evaluated.
- Public Opinion Shifts: Over 50% of Germans now oppose arms exports to Israel.
- Coalition Strains: Germany’s Social Democrats urge a halt to arms deals or risk complicity in war crimes.
- International Context: EU reviewing Israel ties; UK, France, and Canada warn of “concrete actions.”
- Diplomatic Response: Israel’s ambassador acknowledges Merz’s criticism but makes no policy commitments.
- Growing Dissent: Antisemitism commissioner and Israeli scholars highlight generational and societal change.
- Germany-Israel Relations Tested: Once unwavering, Berlin’s support now faces unprecedented scrutiny.
Deep Look: Germany’s Tone on Israel Shifts Amid Gaza Strikes and Rising Public Pressure
May 27, 2025
TURKU/BERLIN — In an unexpected shift in tone, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered his strongest criticism yet of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, declaring during a press conference in Finland that the “massive military strikes” can no longer be justified.
His remarks, made Tuesday, mark a significant departure from Berlin’s decades-long policy of unconditional support for Israel — a stance rooted in the historical burden of the Holocaust and Germany’s postwar commitment to defending the Jewish state.
“The massive military strikes by the Israelis in the Gaza Strip no longer reveal any logic to me,” Merz stated. “What is currently happening is no longer comprehensible.”
His words come amid international concern over escalating civilian casualties in Gaza, where recent Israeli airstrikes have left dozens dead and the enclave’s two million residents increasingly at risk of famine.
Germany’s Special Relationship Under Scrutiny
Merz’s statement is particularly striking given his past loyalty to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Just months ago, Merz defied international calls for accountability by pledging to host Netanyahu in Germany, despite a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
But with Merz now signaling a reassessment, Germany’s position on Israel appears to be entering a new era — shaped less by historical guilt and more by ethical accountability.
Germany’s foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, echoed Merz’s concerns, and calls from the Social Democrats — a junior coalition partner — to halt arms exports to Israel are gaining traction. Critics argue continued military support risks making Germany complicit in war crimes.
Public Sentiment Turns
Recent polls reflect this shift in sentiment. A Civey survey for Tagesspiegel found that 51% of Germans now oppose sending weapons to Israel. Meanwhile, only 36% of Germans view Israel positively — down from 46% in 2021 — according to the Bertelsmann Foundation.
In contrast, 64% of Israelis still believe Germany has a special obligation toward their country, while just 25% of Germans agree.
Even Germany’s commissioner for antisemitism, Felix Klein, called for a “rethink” of Berlin’s policy, asserting that support rooted in Holocaust history cannot justify any and all Israeli actions.
Israel Responds, Diplomacy Delicate
Israel’s ambassador to Berlin, Ron Prosor, acknowledged the mounting criticism, calling Merz “a friend” whose concerns would be listened to “very carefully.” But he stopped short of offering any policy changes.
The growing diplomatic unease comes as the European Union re-evaluates its own relationship with Israel. The United Kingdom, France, and Canada have also warned of “concrete actions” if conditions in Gaza worsen.
From History to Accountability
Israeli historian Moshe Zimmermann says the shift reflects a long-overdue political awakening. While public opinion in Germany has evolved in step with international outrage, he says, German politicians have historically remained “one-dimensional” in their support.
“The political elite has felt duty-bound to support Israel — wherever they are and whatever they do,” said Zimmermann. “But the pressure from below is forcing a reconsideration.”
Zimmermann also noted that Merz’s omission of any renewed invitation for Netanyahu could indicate a broader policy realignment.
Humanitarian Crisis Escalates
With Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worsening, international observers are pressing Israel to halt its military campaign and enter into ceasefire negotiations. Chancellor Merz has yet to address the issue of German arms exports directly, but officials say the matter is under review by Germany’s national security council.
Netanyahu and Merz are expected to speak later this week.
For now, Germany’s rhetoric signals that its once-unchallenged alliance with Israel is under intense domestic and international pressure — and may never return to the status quo.
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