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German chancellor urges Netanyahu to pursue swift Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian aid
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to work toward a “speedy ceasefire” in Gaza, as the protracted conflict continues to exacerbate humanitarian crises. The call, made on Friday, also emphasized the need for safe delivery of humanitarian aid and a long-term resolution for the war-torn region.
Call for de-escalation and humanitarian access
During the conversation, Merz highlighted the importance of ensuring immediate humanitarian assistance to Gaza’s population. He stressed the necessity for aid to be delivered “in a safe and humane manner” and reiterated the imperative of disarming Hamas.
"The chancellor expressed his hope for a speedy ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. All remaining Hamas hostages, including those with German citizenship, must be released immediately," a statement from his office read.
A vision for post-war stability
Merz also advocated for a sustainable post-war order in Gaza, one that balances Israel’s security needs with Palestinians’ right to self-determination. While denouncing any moves toward annexing the West Bank, he emphasized the importance of maintaining a path toward a two-state solution.
Speaking at a Berlin press conference earlier, Merz described the situation in Gaza as “no longer acceptable.” He reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to Israel’s security but also acknowledged the suffering of Palestinians. “We are doing everything we can to do justice to both sides,” he said, adding that Germany is striving to support humanitarian efforts in the region.
Dire humanitarian toll
Over 21 months of war have left Gaza in a state of humanitarian collapse, with most residents displaced at least once and widespread shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The conflict was triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians. The ensuing Israeli military offensive has resulted in at least 58,667 Palestinian deaths, the majority of whom were civilians, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
As international leaders like Merz call for de-escalation, the focus remains on alleviating the suffering of civilians while seeking a path toward lasting peace.
