Merz: Germany may impose sanctions on Israel pending Middle East report

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signalled that Berlin may soon decide on sanctions against Israel in response to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, pending a forthcoming report from Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who is currently touring the Middle East.

“We will wait for the report and then make all necessary decisions,” Merz stated on Friday, August 1, according to German media.

The possible shift in Germany’s stance was previously discussed during a meeting of the government’s security cabinet on July 28. According to Merz, officials considered how Germany might act in coordination with its European partners if further measures are deemed necessary.

Merz also condemned the current situation in Gaza, calling it “unacceptable” and stressing that “it must be changed as soon as possible.”

Foreign Minister Wadephul began his visit to Israel on July 31. During a stop in Taybeh, a town located in the West Bank, he urged Israeli authorities to prosecute settlers responsible for violent acts against Palestinians.

At the same time, the German Defence Ministry has announced that military aircraft have commenced humanitarian airdrops over Gaza. On August 1, two transport planes delivered 14 tons of aid, including food and medical supplies.

“Right now, food and medicine are in critically short supply in Gaza. For many people — including numerous children — this is a matter of sheer survival,” said Defence Minister Boris Pistorius.

By Tamilla Hasanova