Chancellor Merz Arrives in Madrid for Talks with PM Sánchez Amidst Divergent Views on Israel

Chancellor Merz Begins Inaugural Visit to Madrid

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Madrid today, Thursday, September 18, 2025, for his inaugural visit with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The high-level meeting is expected to cover a range of critical topics, including bilateral cooperation, broader European policy, and security matters. However, discussions are anticipated to be particularly focused on the leaders' differing approaches to Israel's ongoing actions in Gaza.

Divergent Stances on Israel's Actions in Gaza

The positions of Germany and Spain on the situation in Gaza have become increasingly divergent. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has adopted a notably critical stance, accusing Israel of 'exterminating a defenceless people' and implementing a series of measures against the nation. These actions include:

• Calling for Israel to be banned from international sporting events, drawing parallels with Russia's exclusion over the Ukraine conflict.
• Implementing an arms embargo against Israel.
• Banning Israeli fuel tankers from Spanish ports.
• Restricting entry for individuals deemed 'directly involved in genocide, human rights violations and war crimes' in Gaza.
• Spain officially recognized the State of Palestine in 2024.

In contrast, Chancellor Merz's Germany has historically maintained strong support for Israel, rooted in its historical responsibility. While the Merz administration has shown increased criticism of Israel's campaign in Gaza compared to previous governments, it has largely aligned with U.S. positions and has been reluctant to support calls for a ceasefire. Chancellor Merz has emphasized that criticism of Israel should not serve as a pretext for antisemitism. However, under public and coalition pressure, Germany did suspend some weapons exports to Israel in August 2025 due to concerns over expanded operations in Gaza.

Broader European and Security Agenda

Beyond the contentious issue of Israel, the leaders are expected to address other significant matters. Chancellor Merz has prioritized strengthening European leadership, aiming to reduce dependence on U.S. influence, and continuing to address the Russia-Ukraine conflict. His foreign policy agenda also includes expanding Germany's defense capabilities and fostering closer European Union and NATO cooperation. Prime Minister Sánchez, for his part, champions a foreign policy built on commitment to the European Union, multilateralism, and the defense of international law, with a particular focus on the Middle East peace process.

Significance of the Visit

This inaugural visit marks a crucial opportunity for Chancellor Merz to engage with a key European Union partner. The discussions will highlight the complexities within the EU regarding foreign policy, particularly on sensitive international conflicts. Despite the clear differences on Israel, the meeting underscores the ongoing need for dialogue and cooperation between two of Europe's influential nations in navigating a challenging global landscape.