Berlin, Germany – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned statements by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir calling for an intensification of targeted killings in the Gaza Strip. Merz stated that such remarks were deeply troubling and incompatible with humanitarian principles and international law. Merz’s stance followed Ben-Gvir’s call for dozens of targeted assassinations daily in Gaza. This call has drawn widespread criticism in several European capitals, and concerns have been raised about its potential impact on Palestinian civilians.
The German government confirmed that Berlin is taking the statements made by Israeli officials very seriously. It stressed the need to adhere to international humanitarian law and protect civilians. It also emphasized the importance of preventing military operations from becoming a free-for-all targeting Palestinians. The German position comes amid escalating European criticism of the way the war in Gaza is being conducted, particularly given the continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation and the rising death toll, as well as the difficulty in delivering humanitarian aid to those in need.
Mertz’s statements coincided with European positions rejecting Ben-Gvir’s remarks. This reflects the widening rift within Europe regarding some of the Israeli government’s policies, particularly calls for intensifying military operations in the Gaza Strip. Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is also facing increasing pressure from its Western allies, as European capitals warn that continued escalation and the targeting of civilians could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and weaken the prospects for a political solution. The German position underscores that Berlin, despite its close ties with Israel, has become more vocal in criticizing statements that it believes could incite further violence. It also opposes any statements that might violate the rules of international humanitarian law.
