BERLIN — Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Monday that his government is reconsidering its stance on the European Union’s association agreement with Israel, signaling a potential pivot as the German leader warned of the “catastrophic humanitarian situation” in Gaza.
“We reserve the right to take such steps,” Merz said in response to a reporter’s question on a possible suspension the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which provides for close ties on trade and other areas of cooperation. Until now, Merz has ruled out German support for a review of the association agreement, though other EU leaders favor a suspension or partial suspension of the pact.
As pressure grows on the German government to take action to alleviate hunger and suffering in Gaza, Merz also said Germany will participate in an airlift to deliver humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory.
Merz said he would await the result of a planned trip of his foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, to the Middle East set for Thursday before evaluating possible next steps. Merz at the same time said he was unable to comment when a reporter asked about a possible suspension of German weapons deliveries to Israel.
Germany is traditionally one of Israel’s closest allies, but pressure has been building on Merz to take concrete action to sanction Israel, including from inside his own coalition — in particular from members of the center-left Social Democratic Party. Merz’s comments mark the first time he has raised the possibility of sanctioning Israel over its actions in Gaza.
International pressure has also mounted on Merz in recent days as leaders of other European countries urge concrete action. Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron said he would move to recognize a Palestinian state.
Merz said the German government would work with Jordan to participate in the airlift of food and medical supplies into Gaza, saying Defense Minsiter Boris Pistorius will coordinate closely with France and the U.K.
“We know that this can only be a very small help for the people in Gaza, but at least it is a contribution that we are happy to make,” Merz said.
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