Germany Refuses Help for Wounded Gaza Children

Germany’s federal government is refusing to take in and treat sick, wounded, or traumatized children from Gaza, a step already taken by several European countries, despite interest from cities including Düsseldorf, Bonn, Leipzig, Hanover, and Kiel.

According to a Israeli outlet 'KAN', these municipalities require federal support to select the children and handle logistics, but Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government remains reluctant. Both the Foreign Ministry and Interior Ministry say they must “first assess the situation.” Interior Minister statements stressed security considerations and prioritizing aid “on the ground” over relocation.

The hesitation may also stem from concerns over triggering a new migration wave, even if only dozens of children are involved, amid Merz’s pledge to curb immigration. Critics note that support from some cities may be politically motivated ahead of local elections, aiming to appeal to left-leaning and Muslim voters.

Alexander Hoffmann, parliamentary leader of the CDU/CSU, said vulnerable groups are “first and foremost the responsibility of neighboring Arab states,” rejecting the idea of opening Germany’s borders for this purpose.

The debate comes just days after Merz announced a suspension of offensive weapons exports to Israel over its decision to seize the Gaza Strip, sparking outrage within his own party. Opposition lawmakers accused the chancellor of a sudden, unexplained reversal of decades-long policy, while Germany has also joined growing international calls to recognize a Palestinian state.