1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
ConflictsIsrael

Merz visits Yad Vashem, meets Netanyahu

02:40

This browser does not support the video element.

Jessica Saltz
December 7, 2025

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made his first official visit to Israel. During a joint press conference with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he described the establishment of a Palestinian state as a basic premise for peace in the region.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, reaffirming Germany's historic responsibility and commitment to Israel's security. His first trip to Israel came after a Gaza ceasefire and amid strained ties over the war. Merz backed a two-state solution, diverging from Prime Minister Netanyahu's stance, as both countries navigate peace talks and regional tensions.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW