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Germany Weighs Possible Sanctions on Israel as Airdrops Begin

Chancellor Friedrich Merz will await Johann Wadephul’s report to determine Germany’s approach to Gaza relief or potential sanctions.

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Außenminister Johann Wadephul
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Overview

  • The Bundeswehr has begun airdropping 34 pallets of food and medical supplies over Gaza, delivering nearly 14 tons of aid as the enclave nears famine conditions.
  • Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul urged Israel to guarantee safe UN and aid organization access, halt policies of annexation and displacement, and support the Palestinian Authority’s return to Gaza for reconstruction.
  • Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaled on August 1 that he will decide on unprecedented sanctions against Israel only after reviewing Wadephul’s findings from his visits to Tel Aviv and Ramallah.
  • Germany’s cautious linking of Palestinian state recognition to a formal peace process contrasts with moves by France, the U.K. and Canada to recognize Palestine ahead of negotiations.
  • Humanitarian groups warn that airdrops are costly and risky and emphasize that ground convoys held at Gaza’s borders remain the most efficient way to deliver life-saving aid.