Fact Check: Merz's support for Israel's actions marks a rare shift for a German leader.

Fact Check: "Merz's support for Israel's actions marks a rare shift for a German leader."

What We Know

In late May 2025, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made unprecedented comments regarding Israel's military actions in Gaza, marking a significant departure from the long-standing German policy of unwavering support for Israel. Merz publicly criticized the Israeli military's operations, stating, “What the Israeli army is doing in the Gaza Strip, I no longer understand the goal,” and described the harm to civilians as “no longer justifiable as a fight against terrorism” (source-2). This criticism aligns with a broader shift in tone among Western nations towards Israel's actions, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks (source-5).

Historically, Germany's support for Israel has been deeply rooted in its post-World War II commitment to Jewish safety and the moral responsibility stemming from the Holocaust. This commitment was famously articulated by former Chancellor Angela Merkel, who described Israel's security as Germany's "Staatsräson" or "reason of state" (source-2). Merz's comments indicate a potential reevaluation of this stance, as he expressed concern for the civilian population in Gaza and questioned whether Israel's actions were in line with its stated goals (source-5).

Analysis

The evidence presented indicates that Merz's remarks represent a notable shift in German foreign policy, particularly in relation to Israel. Analysts have pointed out that Merz's comments reflect a change in tone and positioning from the German government, which has historically refrained from publicly criticizing Israel's military actions (source-5). Peter Lintl, an analyst from the German Institute of International and Security Affairs, noted that Merz's statements signal a departure from the previously unquestioned support for Israel, suggesting a more critical approach to its military conduct in Gaza (source-5).

While some sources argue that Merz's comments could be seen as a continuation of Germany's commitment to Israel's security, they also highlight the unprecedented nature of his public criticism (source-6). This duality indicates that while Germany's foundational policy may remain intact, the willingness to publicly question Israel's actions marks a significant evolution in diplomatic discourse.

Critics of the previous administration's approach have welcomed this shift, suggesting it may open avenues for more balanced discussions regarding human rights and international law in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict (source-2). However, the long-standing historical context of Germany's relationship with Israel complicates this analysis, as any shift in tone must be understood within the framework of Germany's moral and political obligations stemming from its past.

Conclusion

The claim that "Merz's support for Israel's actions marks a rare shift for a German leader" is True. Friedrich Merz's public criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza represents a significant departure from the traditional German policy of unwavering support for Israel. His remarks indicate a willingness to engage critically with Israel's actions, reflecting a potential evolution in Germany's diplomatic stance that has been largely absent in previous administrations.

Fact Check: Merz's support for Israel's actions marks a rare shift for a German leader.