New German chancellor sends minister to Israel amid concern about aid plans

New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed concern about Israel’s plans to take over the distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza and said his new foreign minister would travel to Israel at the weekend.

“It must be clear that the Israeli government must fulfil its obligations under international law and that humanitarian aid must be provided in the Gaza Strip,” he told ARD television late on Tuesday.

“We view the developments of the last few days with considerable concern,” he said, adding Israel had the right to defend itself but must live up to its humanitarian obligations.

Berlin feels a special responsibility towards Israel due to Germany’s legacy of the Holocaust and is traditionally cautious in its criticism of the government.

In February, Merz drew criticism from some for saying he had invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and would find a way for him to visit without being arrested under a warrant by the International Criminal Court.

Israel announced its plans on Monday as part of an expanded operation it says could include seizing the entire Gaza Strip.