Merz says EU doesn’t have ability to influence events in Middle East
(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on Saturday that the European Union does not have the ability to meaningfully influence developments in the Middle East, even if it wished to do so.
“We are witnessing the temporary end of a rules-based, multilateral order grounded in international law. We are in a phase in which the law of the strongest prevails in many places. Nevertheless, accusations directed at the European Union are misplaced. Even if we had wanted to, we would not have been able to decisively influence events in the Middle East,” Merz told reports.
He highlighted Europe’s limited military capabilities, asking, “Who in Europe has bunker-busting weapons to stop Iran's nuclear weapons program? Who has the means to force the warring parties to a ceasefire? Who among us has the means not only to threaten Hamas with disarmament, but also to enforce it if necessary? We are in a phase of transition to a time in which strength will once again play a greater role and rules-based agreements will fade into the background.”
Merz added that the EU still has avenues to exert influence in the region. “We don't push ourselves into the spotlight, especially not just as donors. We have opportunities to exert influence in the region—politically, diplomatically, and certainly financially,” he said.
He emphasized Germany’s unique position, noting, “We are probably the only European country that can work in very good harmony with both the Israeli government and the Arab states. It is always clear that we are not a neutral mediator, but stand firmly by Israel's side.”
A long-time supporter of Israel, Merz frequently references Germany’s “historical responsibility” from the Holocaust and describes Israel’s security as a “reason of state.” However, this moral stance has clashed with international law, as Berlin has resisted EU calls to sanction Israeli ministers or suspend trade agreements over alleged war crimes.
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