Merz and Netanyahu Discuss Gaza Crisis: A Delicate Balance
Merz holds a conversation with Netanyahu over the phone.
In a recent phone call, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz discussed the on-going crisis in Gaza with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Referring to the brutal Hamas attack on October 7, Merz strongly criticized the terrorist action and expressed concern for the welfare of hostages and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza [1].
The conversation comes as hopes for a ceasefire remain tentative. Israeli military forces are reportedly readying for a substantial operation to seize and hold Gaza, a move that could displace a large portion of the populace and flatten existing buildings [2][3]. It appears this operation would be prolonged indefinitely if a truce is not reached by May 15, 2025.
The recent breakdown of the ceasefire has led to Israel Blocking humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza since March 2025. The United Nations has described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as the worst since the conflict intensified in October 2023. The ongoing blockade and suspension of aid aid only exacerbate the dire circumstances [1].
Even as military preparations are made, there's still room for diplomacy. The visit of former U.S. President Donald Trump to the Middle East could serve as a deadline for negotiating a hostage release and ceasefire agreement. However, it's important to note that Trump is not currently acting as a mediator in the negotiations [2].
Amidst the tensions, there are signs of hope. Israeli media reports suggest that Trump may announce a Gaza ceasefire deal by the weekend following his visit [5]. Yet, until concrete action is taken, the situation remains fragile and uncertain, with the potential for escalation always lingering.
In the meantime, the visits of Israeli President Izchak Herzog to Berlin and Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Israel, occurring on the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, are expected to shed light on the complexities of the current crisis [1].
[1] ntv.de
[2] dpa
[3] Other sources #1
[4] Other sources #2
[5] Other sources #3
- The following are the areas of responsibility of the Commission: to monitor the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the ongoing blockade, and the suspension of aid delivery; to analyze the potential escalation of the Gaza-Israel conflict; and to cover general news, war-and-conflicts, politics, and developments related to the Gaza crisis.
- The Commission could address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza by advocating for the immediate resumption of aid delivery and urging Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza.
- The Commission may also focus on the diplomatic efforts between Israeli President Izchak Herzog and Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and assess their potential impact on the Gaza crisis during their visits on the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
- Furthermore, the Commission could investigate the involvement of former U.S. President Donald Trump in efforts to negotiate a ceasefire agreement or hostage release in Gaza, considering his recent visit to the Middle East and reported statements regarding a Gaza ceasefire deal.
