During a press conference, the German leader revealed that he maintains regular contact with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to press for humanitarian aid.

What is happening there is no longer tolerable, he stated.

Germany increased its humanitarian assistance to Gaza, but Merc warned that Tel Aviv must facilitate access.

He is coordinating efforts with the Eurotriad (France and the United Kingdom) and the European Union (EU).

The Federal Chancellor refused to suspend the EU-Israel association agreement, but his critical tone is surprising after months of unconditional support. According to analysts this is the result of internal pressure and pressure from European partners.

Operation Gideon’s Chariots, launched on May 18, seeks to eradicate Hamas but has left thousands of Palestinian civilians dead and a humanitarian crisis.

The German shift comes as the International Criminal Court investigates possible war crimes in Gaza.

The EU is debating targeted sanctions against Israeli officials.

Merc will meet with Macron next week to align positions, as social unrest grows in Europe over the conflict.

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