Merz sharply condemns Ben-Gvir's call to kill dozens of people in Gaza

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has sharply condemned statements by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who called for operations in the Gaza Strip that kill dozens of people every day. The German government described his words as misanthropic, contrary to international law, and unacceptable.

The Chancellor's position was voiced on August 19 by Deputy German Government Spokesperson Sebastian Hille. Berlin also emphasized that Israel must treat the Palestinian population in accordance with international law and avoid further steps toward annexation of territories in the West Bank.

The trigger was Ben-Gvir's remarks in a podcast by former Israeli hostage Rom Braslavski. The minister said that, in his opinion, Israel should carry out targeted killings in Gaza every night and eliminate 30–40 people each time. He clarified that this should not be limited to those who pose an immediate threat.

Ben-Gvir also stated that in the Gaza Strip there are people who, in his opinion, "do not deserve to live," and used dehumanizing language about them. The Israeli minister's remarks sparked sharp reactions both outside and inside Israel.

EU again discusses sanctions against Ben-Gvir

Amid the scandal, calls in Germany to support European sanctions against Ben-Gvir have intensified. Measures could include a travel ban and asset freeze. Such measures require a unanimous decision by all 27 EU countries.

According to the German government spokesperson, possible measures against radical Israeli politicians are to be discussed again at an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in early September. Berlin has not yet made a final decision on supporting sanctions against Ben-Gvir.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul separately called Ben-Gvir's statements totally unacceptable. He said Germany would participate in discussions about possible consequences within the European Union, but did not preemptively support a specific sanctions option.

Germany had previously taken a cautious stance on European sanctions against individual members of the Israeli government. Following Ben-Gvir's new remarks, advocates of a harder approach emerged both within the ruling coalition and the opposition.

Ben-Gvir heads the far-right party "Jewish Power" and is responsible for police and prison services in the Israeli government. He does not command the Israeli army and cannot independently order strikes in the Gaza Strip.

Based on materials from: Der Spiegel, Tagesschau, ZDF