It is hardly surprising that the first leader of a major European country to visit Israel following the October ceasefire in Gaza, and the first such leader to make the trip in over a year, will be Germany‘s Friedrich merz.
His scheduled arrival this weekend underscores Berlin’s status as one of Israel’s strongest allies in Europe, where Jerusalem’s standing has substantially deteriorated over the course of its two-year war with Hamas.
While many European capitals issued a stream of harsh condemnations, proposed or imposed sanctions, and unilaterally recognized a Palestinian state in protest of Israel’s wartime conduct in Gaza, Germany repeatedly stressed its support for the Jewish state and its right to defense, largely avoided any punitive measures, and made sure that criticism didn’t become too strident.
Though Berlin’s approach was not nearly as confrontational as those of Paris or London, the relationship has not escaped unscathed since Merz came to power in May as head of a coalition that includes both his conservative Christian Democratic Union party and the more liberal Social Democrats, or SPD.In August,the chancellor announced a partial arms embargo on Israel,lifting it only last month in light of the ceasefire agreement.
Merz’s arrival takes place shortly after Israel’s landmark handover of its Arrow 3 missile defense system, which fell on the 60th anniversary of German-Israeli relations – creating an opening to return ties to their pre-Gaza war status.
“The timing is no coincidence,” said Gil Murciano, CEO of Mitvim, an Israel-based foreign relations think tank.”The visit will attempt to return to the former German-Israeli relationship, as the exchange between the two countries has slowed down since the war in Gaza.”
[image of The flags of Israel and Germany fly in front of the Arrow 3 missile defense system and a radar dome during an event of the German Air Force at the Holzdorf Air Base, eastern Germany, on December 3, 2025. (RALF HIRSCHBERGER / AFP)]
Merz is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Saturday for a two-day trip during which he will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss bilateral relations, the ceasefire in Gaza and other international issues, a German government spokesperson said late last month.
He will also visit the Yad Vashem memorial and hold talks with local representatives from society, the spokesperson added.
for Germany, the trip reflects both strategic interest in israel’s defense technologies and regional power, and expresses its longstanding sense of historical responsibility to the Jewish state following the Holocaust. It also serves Israel, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hopes the visit will spotlight Jerusalem’s renewed diplomatic standing and its defense partnerships as the Gaza war winds down.
Yet despite the symbolism, d
German Politicians Condemn Israeli Settler Violence, Express Concerns
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Recent escalations in violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem have prompted strong reactions from across the German political spectrum. While reaffirming support for Israel’s security, German lawmakers are increasingly vocal in their criticism of settler actions and the rhetoric of some Israeli government officials. This reflects a growing concern within Germany about the potential consequences of unchecked violence and its impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israel’s international standing.
The Core of the Issue: Settler Violence in the West Bank
The term “settler violence” refers to acts of aggression, intimidation, and property damage carried out by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and their property in the occupied West Bank and East jerusalem.These acts range from vandalism and harassment to physical assaults and, in some cases, fatalities. The West Bank is internationally recognized as occupied territory, and Israeli settlements are considered illegal under international law, though Israel disputes this.
Why is this happening?
Several factors contribute to settler violence. These include a sense of impunity among some settlers, fueled by a perceived lack of effective law enforcement, and the influence of extremist ideologies. Recent rhetoric from some Israeli ministers has also been criticized for possibly inciting violence. The expansion of settlements themselves is a key driver of conflict, as it encroaches on Palestinian land and resources.
Political Responses within Germany
German politicians have responded to the escalating violence with a mix of condemnation and calls for action. The responses highlight divisions within the German government regarding the best approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Criticism from the Conservative CDU/CSU
Roderich Kiesewetter, a conservative lawmaker, condemned the violence as “unacceptable” and a threat to Israel’s security. However, his criticism extended to the rhetoric of some Israeli ministers, urging Chancellor Scholz to clearly signal germany’s support for a democratic Israel while rejecting policies that undermine the rule of law and isolate the country internationally. This suggests a concern that the current Israeli government’s policies are counterproductive to Israel’s long-term interests.
Adis Ahmetović, a Social Democrat, took a more direct stance, demanding an end to “unchecked and rampant settler violence.” He called for Friedrich Merz, the leader of the CDU/CSU, to engage with Israeli civil society groups opposing the government’s policies and to re-establish contact with the Palestinian Authority (PA) at a high level.This emphasizes the importance of maintaining dialog with both sides of the conflict and supporting those working for a peaceful resolution.
The Meaning of German Reactions
Germany has a unique historical responsibility towards Israel, stemming from the Holocaust. This has traditionally led to strong support for Israel within German foreign policy.Though, recent years have seen a growing willingness among German politicians to publicly criticize Israeli policies that they believe are detrimental to the peace process or violate international law. This shift reflects a broader trend within Europe and a growing recognition that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is essential for regional stability.
Key Takeaways
- German politicians across the political spectrum condemn settler violence in the West Bank and east Jerusalem.
- There are differing views on how best to respond, with conservatives emphasizing support for Israel’s security and social democrats calling for stronger criticism of Israeli policies.
- Germany’s historical responsibility towards Israel shapes its foreign policy, but there is a growing willingness to publicly criticize policies deemed harmful to the peace process.
- The escalating violence raises concerns about the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Israel’s international standing.
Looking ahead,it is indeed likely that German pressure on Israel to address settler violence and pursue a two-state solution will continue to increase. The situation remains volatile,and the international community’s response will be crucial in preventing further escalation and fostering a path towards a lasting peace.