Germany has stood up for Israel’s right to self defense with a caveat: Don’t overdo it.
Israel is justified in trying to stop rocket attacks launched from the Gaza Strip, Germany’s government spokesman Thomas Steg told reporters Monday. He also said Germany welcomed the news that Israel had ended a five-day operation in the territory that killed approximately 100 Palestinians. Foreign ministry spokesman Martin Jager said Israel should “try to be proportional” in its response, according to an Associated Press report.
The escalation of attacks from Gaza comes as Israel prepares to mark its 60th anniversary. In recognition of this milestone anniversary, German Chancellor Angela Merkel is to arrive March 16 in Jerusalem for the first joint Cabinet meeting between Germany and Israel — something she hopes to make an annual event.
German Development Minister Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul recently held talks with officials in Israel and the Palestinian territories aiming to underscore Germany’s interest in promoting stability in the region.
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