During the phone call on Friday, Merz said that the disarmament of Hamas is an absolute necessity and that the remaining hostages, including those with German citizenship, must be released immediately.
He also emphasized "that the urgent need for humanitarian aid must now reach the population in Gaza in a safe and humane way", according to his office in a statement.
Merz advocates for a solution for Gaza after the war "that takes into account Israel's security needs and the Palestinians' right to self-determination". He stressed that "no steps should be taken towards the annexation of the West Bank", according to the statement.
At a press conference in Berlin on Friday morning, Merz said that what is happening in Gaza "is no longer acceptable". At the same time, he emphasized Germany's commitment to Israel's security.
But we also see the suffering of the Palestinian population and do everything we can to contribute with humanitarian aid, he said.
