Amid a dramatic shortage of food and other essential goods, Israel's closest allies are increasing pressure on its government. On Monday, the German government announced the establishment of an air bridge to deliver relief supplies. At the same time, Chancellor Friedrich Merz issued clear demands to both sides of the conflict. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump insisted that "hungry people must have something to eat." The air bridge announced by Merz will be implemented in cooperation with Jordan.
France and the United Kingdom are also prepared to contribute food and medical supplies, according to the German government. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius will coordinate efforts with the two countries. Although this is only “a very small help” for the people in Gaza, it is a contribution the government wants to make. Merz Calls for Comprehensive Ceasefire Merz also issued direct demands to the parties involved.
“Israel must immediately, comprehensively, and sustainably improve the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza,” said the CDU leader. The increased food deliveries permitted by Israel since Sunday are likely just a first step. In addition, the German government is calling for a comprehensive ceasefire — not just a temporary one. To achieve that, the radical Islamic group Hamas must clear the way, release the hostages, and lay down its arms. Among those still being held are German citizens.
Merz emphasized: “For the German government, there is no doubt that it was the cruel and inhumane terror of Hamas on October 7, 2023, that triggered the fighting in Gaza.” The German chancellor also warned Israel against taking further steps toward the annexation of the West Bank. Criticism of Airdrops: ‘Risky and Inefficient’ International humanitarian workers consider airdrops ineffective and expensive due to the relatively small quantities delivered and the precarious situation on the ground — especially when compared to truck transport.
People on the ground may also be injured by falling pallets. “Dropping humanitarian aid from the air is a meaningless initiative that reeks of cynicism,” said Jean Guy Vataux, emergency coordinator for Doctors Without Borders in Gaza. “There are roads, there are trucks, food and medicine are available — everything is ready to bring humanitarian aid into Gaza.” The airdrops, he said, amounted to less than 20 tons of aid — an amount that could easily be delivered by a single truck.
Lea Reisner, a Bundestag member from the Left Party, expressed a similar view. “An air bridge to Gaza may appear humanitarian at first glance, but it doesn’t replace a clear political stance and offers no sustainable solution to the suffering of starving civilians. Airdrops are not only risky and inefficient — they are far from enough to meet humanitarian needs,” she said.
Trump: ‘Israel Is Responsible for Aid Distribution’ President Trump described the situation in Gaza as dire and announced additional humanitarian assistance. There are many hungry people in Gaza, he said, and it is especially important now “to make sure people have something to eat.” Just a few weeks ago, the U.S. had provided millions for food aid in Gaza, Trump noted. He expressed hope that the food would reach those in need.
When asked what responsibility Israel has in ensuring that aid reaches the people, Trump responded: “Israel has a major responsibility.” However, he added that Israel is being hindered by Hamas, which continues to hold Israeli hostages. “That’s very interesting,” Trump said. “Israel really wants the hostages who are still alive to survive.”
