Chancellor Friedrich Merz marked the third anniversary of the 7 October attack by restating support for Israel's security and saying a Palestinian state beside Israel is the best path to a new order.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday that Germany stands firmly by Israel as the country marked three years since the Hamas-led attack of 7 October 2023, dpa reported. He said Israeli friends could count on Germany working so that such a crime is not repeated, and he called Israel's security a lesson of the Shoah and part of German identity.
Merz also said the aim should be a new order in which Israelis, Palestinians and their neighbours can live in peace. He said that goal is best reached by establishing a Palestinian state alongside Israel. Die Zeit reported the same two-state line and quoted him saying the government would fight antisemitism in old and new forms.
He said Jewish people must be able to live without fear across Germany and that the government would oppose those who relativise or question Israel's right to exist, not only on the anniversary. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also warned about antisemitism, Die Zeit reported.
dpa said Israel's ambassador Ron Prosor and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt were due to speak at the main commemoration at Bebelplatz in Berlin at 3 p.m. local time. An interfaith service was planned later at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.
The statement does not change German policy on arms or aid. It is a remembrance text issued on the anniversary.
People Sentiments Mixed
- Merz said Jewish life must be able to continue without fear in Germany.
- He said a Palestinian state beside Israel is the best route to a durable order.