Merz backs Trump peace plan ahead of Israel visit

Ahead of his scheduled visit to Israel on Saturday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz held a phone conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to discuss prospects for a settlement in the Middle East.

According to the German government press service, Stefan Cornelius, an official spokesperson, told journalists that the conversation took place “in a friendly atmosphere.”

"The Chancellor expressed his support for US President [Donald] Trump’s peace plan and welcomed the constructive position of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) on this matter," Cornelius said.

Merz emphasised that the PNA “must now urgently begin implementing necessary reforms.” He added that “if they are successful, the PNA can play a constructive role in the post-war settlement.”

"The goal should be to achieve a solution based on the creation of two states. This perspective offers the best chances of ensuring long-term peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians," Merz noted.

Meanwhile, negotiations involving the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye continue with Hamas over a proposal in which the group would relinquish governing authority in Gaza and undertake a phased disarmament process. Under the proposal, Hamas would initially surrender its heavy weapons, followed by a gradual decommissioning of lighter arms.

While Egypt and Qatar view the plan as achievable, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains cautious. A Western source described him as “sceptical but committed to give it a chance.”

Washington and its mediators are working to finalise all elements of the phase-two framework with regional support before presenting the complete package to Hamas. One Western official summarised the negotiation’s key objective: “IDF out of Gaza but Hamas out of power.” The critical question is whether Hamas will accept disarmament and allow a new government to assume authority, as the group cannot retain control either directly or through its weapons. Observers expect a decisive outcome within the coming weeks.

A White House official told the media that announcements on the next steps of the Gaza plan are expected soon, emphasising that the Trump administration and its partners are working intensively to implement the president’s historic 20-point plan, aimed at ensuring stability and prosperity for Gaza and the wider region.

By Tamilla Hasanova