German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Hamas to implement Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza and immediately release the Israeli hostages, arguing that the militant group has now been defeated militarily.
He pledged that Germany, together with its European partners, will contribute to reconstruction efforts and humanitarian aid in the region.
Speaking to Germany’s public broadcaster ARD, Merz stated that “more than one million people still live in Gaza” and noted that the conflict has entered a “decisive phase until the end of next week.” “Hamas can avoid further bloodshed by freeing the hostages and accepting the peace plan,” he stressed.
The Chancellor expressed hope that “within Hamas leadership, forces in favor of cooperation with Israel will now prevail.”
Commenting on the recent drone incidents across Germany, Merz said he suspects Russia is behind them, describing the situation as “a serious threat to our national security.” He clarified that no armed drones have been detected but warned that these are “attempts at espionage and population intimidation.”
Turning to the state of the German Armed Forces, Merz highlighted the urgent need to recruit 80,000 new soldiers and left open the possibility of reintroducing mandatory military service, including for women, which would require a constitutional amendment.
Finally, he reaffirmed the government’s support for a voluntary service model but did not rule out its evolution into a mandatory social service system to meet the country’s defense and civic needs.
