Israel backing indefatigable, according to Merz
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has reaffirmed Germany's unwavering support for the State of Israel, emphasising the country's commitment to Israel's security and existence as a fundamental part of its state policy.
Speaking at the 75th anniversary celebration of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, Merz acknowledged the Jewish community's significant contribution to German society and emphasised Germany's historical responsibility towards Jews. He called on the people of Germany to promote coexistence, maintain dialogue, and show civil courage against antisemitism, racism, and discrimination.
Merz also distanced himself from 'Israel-criticism' that is increasingly being used as a pretext for antisemitism. He stated that criticism of the Israeli government is possible, but using it as a pretext for Jew-hatred is damaging to Germany's soul.
Central Council President Josef Schuster had protested against Merz's decision and demanded a revision. However, Schuster also emphasised the need for the fight against antisemitism and hatred. He highlighted the symbolic significance of the Central Council's founding as a symbol of Jewish survival and renewal in Germany.
Schuster noted that the visibility of Jewish life in Germany today is not self-evident, given the spread of antisemitism from the fringes to the center of society. He stated that Germany must stand up for Israel's security, regardless of who the head of government is.
The anniversary of the Central Council is a moment of joy but also a call to continue advocating against antisemitism to safeguard democracy. Merz expressed horror, shame, and concern about the increase in antisemitism in Germany since the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel. He warned against demands that Germany should turn away from Israel.
In the past, Merz has previously criticized Israel's actions in the Middle East conflict and restricted the export of weapons to Israel. However, the German federal government under Merz's leadership has maintained a consistent position on Israel, emphasising Israel's right to defend itself while also stating that support does not mean endorsing every decision of an Israeli government.
The Central Council, founded in 1950, five years after the Holocaust, serves as the umbrella organization for Jewish communities in Germany. The Council represents the political, social, and religious interests of the Jewish community in Germany.
This year's celebration marked the upcoming Jewish New Year festival of Rosh Hashanah. Merz's speech included a commitment to the existence and security of the State of Israel, which he described as an unnegotiable part of the normative foundations of their country. The event was a testament to the continued efforts to promote understanding, coexistence, and solidarity between Germany and the Jewish community.
Read also:
- United States tariffs pose a threat to India, necessitating the recruitment of adept negotiators or strategists, similar to those who had influenced Trump's decisions.
- Weekly happenings in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Southwest region's most popular posts, accompanied by an inquiry:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
