“What’s happening in Gaza is unbearable — the war must stop immediately and humanitarian aid must be ensured” – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday reiterated his strong criticism of the Israeli military offensive in Gaza, calling the ongoing situation “unacceptable” and demanding an immediate ceasefire along with the provision of extensive humanitarian assistance.
“What’s happening in Gaza is unbearable — the war must stop immediately and humanitarian aid must be ensured” – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
“What’s happening in Gaza is unbearable — the war must stop immediately and humanitarian aid must be ensured” – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
Berlin, July 18 — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday reiterated his strong criticism of the Israeli military offensive in Gaza, calling the ongoing situation “unacceptable” and demanding an immediate ceasefire along with the provision of extensive humanitarian assistance.
Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, Merz expressed his concern over the situation in Gaza and said he is holding talks with European leaders to help bring about a ceasefire and ensure unhindered access for humanitarian aid.
He said:
“What is happening in the Gaza Strip is no longer acceptable to us. We strongly emphasize — first, there must be an immediate ceasefire; second, extensive humanitarian assistance must be ensured for the people in the region.”
Merz stated that he recently raised these concerns in a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and would continue diplomatic efforts in the future.
He added:
“Yesterday in London, I discussed this issue with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. And next week, when French President Emmanuel Macron visits Berlin, I will bring it up again.”
Merz stressed:
“We want to help Israel, but we are also making it very clear — what is unacceptable cannot be accepted under any circumstances. And what is happening in Gaza now can no longer be tolerated.”
It is worth noting that since Israel began its military operations in Gaza in 2023, nearly 59,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 100,000 injured — the majority of them women and children.
Israel is currently facing trial at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on charges of genocide in Gaza, where at least 1.9 million Palestinians have been displaced and are suffering from severe shortages of food, medicine, and essential supplies.
