Overview
- At a joint press conference, Merz said criticism of Israel must not be a pretext for antisemitism, while Netanyahu decried pro‑Hamas displays at foreign protests and again opposed a Palestinian state.
- Merz affirmed support for a negotiated two‑state outcome but said Germany will not recognize a Palestinian state in the foreseeable future.
- He confirmed further German weapons deliveries after the partial arms‑export embargo expired at the end of November, signaling a thaw in strained ties.
- The chancellor pressed for expanded humanitarian access to Gaza and cautioned against any formal or de facto annexation steps in the West Bank.
- Merz visited Yad Vashem, met former Hamas hostages and relatives, spoke with opposition figures, and said a Netanyahu invitation to Germany was not on the agenda.