Chancellor Merz Condemns Ben-Gvir Gaza Remarks as EU Considers Sanctions
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government strongly condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir in Berlin on August 19, 2026, characterizing his recent remarks on Gaza as inhumane and contrary to international law, while European Union foreign ministers prepare to discuss targeted sanctions against extremist politicians.
Berlin Denounces Inhumane Remarks and West Bank Policies
The diplomatic friction intensified following statements from Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir calling for intensified airstrikes on the Gaza Strip and urging Israel to kill 30 to 40 Palestinians a day, alongside renewed demands to resettle Israelis in Gaza at the expense of the local Palestinian population. Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, deputy government spokesperson Sebastian Hille stated that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz strongly condemns those remarks as unacceptable violations of international law, according to reporting from Türkiye Today.
Beyond the rhetoric regarding Gaza, Berlin registered deep concern over actions unfolding in the occupied West Bank. Hille outlined that Chancellor Merz opposes any further steps toward annexation, whether executed through formal measures or administrative planning that achieves de facto annexation on the ground. Such policies directly obstruct a viable two-state solution, according to the German government.
European Union Weighs Targeted Measures at Gymnich Meeting
The diplomatic pushback extends beyond Berlin. European Union foreign ministers are scheduled to address the situation in the coming days at their informal Gymnich meeting. Proposals for targeted measures are expected from EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.
These deliberations stem from agreements reached by EU leaders at their June summit to prepare restrictive measures against extremist figures advocating actions that breach human dignity and international law.
Humanitarian Imperatives and the Path Forward
Amid escalating political tensions, Chancellor Merz has pressed the Israeli government to guarantee humane treatment for Palestinians, safeguard private property, and ensure uninterrupted access to basic public services and humanitarian aid.
