Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow the urgent entry of humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip amid worsening conditions in the besieged enclave.
According to Jordan News Agency, German government spokesperson Stefan Cornelius said Monday that Merz, following a phone call with Netanyahu, stressed the immediate need for Israel to facilitate sufficient humanitarian assistance into Gaza and ensure its safe distribution.
Merz has recently adopted a firmer stance toward the Israeli government, raising doubts about its military strategy in light of the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. The territory remains under a tight blockade, with severe restrictions on the entry of food, medicine, and fuel.
UN agencies have confirmed widespread famine across the entire strip. Both Merz and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul believe Israel has failed to uphold its commitment to enable the flow of humanitarian aid through the newly established Israeli-American distribution channel, which was expected to become operational on May 25.