German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to Israel as the country marked the third anniversary of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks led by Hamas.
Merz said Germany stood firmly with Israel and remained committed to ensuring that such an attack was never repeated. He also reaffirmed Germany’s support for Israel’s security and existence, while calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel as a pathway to peace and security for Israelis, Palestinians and neighbouring countries.
The chancellor also warned against rising anti-Semitism in Germany, saying Jews must be able to live without fear. He said the federal government would continue efforts to combat anti-Semitism and oppose attempts to question Israel’s right to exist, while expressing sympathy for victims, survivors, former hostages and their families.
The Oct. 7, 2023 attacks killed about 1,200 people in Israel and saw more than 250 others abducted to Gaza, according to the source, triggering the Gaza war. Several events were scheduled in Berlin to mark the anniversary, including a main commemoration at Bebelplatz, an inter-faith service, a Bundestag debate on protecting Jewish life and the projection of the Israeli flag onto the Brandenburg Gate.
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