Merz under pressure: CSU criticizes Germany's gun policy and Israel strategy

Merz under pressure: CSU criticizes Germany's gun policy and Israel strategy

Gazastreifen, Palästina - The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip has deteriorated dramatically and international voices are louder. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) emphasizes that the civilian population may no longer be affected as justification for military measures against Hamas. At the same time, Foreign Minister Johann WadePhul is planning to review German arms deliveries to Israel and, if necessary, restrict it. This is done against the background of increased criticism of the Israeli warfare in the Gaza Strip, which is perceived as disproportionate. WadePhulf Himelfa has described the auxiliary deliveries that go to the civilian population as "only a drop on the hot stone" and emphasized the need to grant basic human rights for everyone.

The political tensions within the Union are noticeable. CSU state group leader Alexander Hoffmann criticizes Merz ’change of course and warns not to sanction friends. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt comments against a stop by German arms deliveries to Israel, which further illustrates the disagreements within the coalition. Merz is pushed into an "emergency" by some observers, not least due to the distant attitude of the SPD to Israel, which also demands that armaments delivered from Germany are not used in attacks that are contrary to international law.

international reactions and responsibility

The problem is reinforced by international politics. Chancellor Emmanuel Macron speaks of a "moral duty" to recognize the Palestinian state and is planning an international conference on the two -state solution. Macron appeals to Europe to formulate a collective and hard statement if Israel does not respond to the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. In preparation for this conference, the Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar will be expected in Berlin next week to discuss the current situation.

The pressure on Israel is growing after the EU Commission checks the association agreement, which forms the basis of the relationship between the EU and Israel. A majority of 27 Foreign Minister voted for an assessment of the suspension of the agreement, which is happening against the will of Germany. Ursula von der Leyen expresses sharp criticism of the Israeli military operations, while the humanitarian situation in the Gaza strip is deteriorating.

Humanitarian crisis and human rights situation

Amnesty International has documented the serious human rights violations in Israel and the occupied Palestinian areas for decades. The Middle East conflict has devastating effects in the Gaza Strip: over 50,100 people, including more than 17,000 children, died from Israeli military campaigns. In addition, 1.9 million Palestinians were driven out inside the country.

The catastrophic situation was still exacerbated by persistent air raids and a strict blockade. The International Court of Justice (IGH) had already arranged measures to protect the Palestinians in 2024, which Israel has not complied with. Amnesty International has found that the actions committed by Israel can be classified as genocide in accordance with the Völkermord Convention.