Germany's Chancellor Merz Visits Israel for Trade and Gaza Talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Israel on Saturday night for his inaugural visit since assuming office in May. Upon arrival in Jerusalem, he is scheduled to meet with President Isaac Herzog at the Presidents Residence.

On Sunday morning, Chancellor Merz will hold discussions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, followed by a joint press briefing. According to German media reports, the talks will focus on strengthening bilateral relations, particularly the resumption of military cooperation after Germany partially lifted the freeze on arms exports to Israel last November.

The agenda is expected to include efforts to stabilize the Gaza ceasefire and discussions on the United States proposed plan for Gazas day after. Regional security and Germanys role in providing humanitarian aid to Gaza are also anticipated topics. Rising antisemitism and the protection of German Jews will be addressed during the visit.

Later on Sunday, Chancellor Merz will follow the tradition of visiting the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial in Jerusalem, where he will lay a wreath in memory of Holocaust victims. He is also scheduled to meet with relatives of those affected by the events of October 7.

Earlier, in a phone conversation with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Merz emphasized the need for urgent reforms within the Palestinian Authority, encouraging Abbas to take steps that would enable the organization to contribute constructively in the post-war period. The PA stated that Abbas briefed Merz on ongoing reforms in education aligned with UNESCO standards and on plans to abolish the law concerning prisoner payments. Abbas also noted preparations for general elections once conditions allow after the conflict.

Author: Jackson Miller