After more than 18 months of war in Gaza, international patience with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seems to be wearing thin. Most notably, close allies like Germany and the United States have seen a shift in rhetoric that challenges Israel's long-standing diplomatic insulation.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced rare and pointed criticism of Israel's strategy in Gaza. At the conference "re:publica" in Berlin on Monday, Merz stated that the suffering of civilians "can no longer be justified" as part of Israel's fight against Hamas.

He emphasized Germany's unique responsibility towards Israel but added: "But when limits are crossed and humanitarian international law is clearly violated, then Germany — and the German Chancellor — must speak out." He added that Israel must not act in ways that could alienate even its closest allies.

Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Monday also described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as "unbearable" and called for a more effective aid delivery. He acknowledged the challenge of balancing Germany's commitment to Israel with the values of human dignity and international law.

In 2023, Germany approved arms exports to Israel worth €326.5 million ($363.5 million), including military equipment and war weapons, a 10-fold increase from 2022. In 2024, it was at €161.1 million ($182.8 million).

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