German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s unwavering support for Israel is not new, but even by his standards, his unequivocal statements yesterday were met with great enthusiasm among Berlin’s Jewish community.

At a CDU party conference in Regensburg, pro-Palestinian demonstrators waved signs reading “Yes to International Courts” and expressing support for a Palestinian state. The Chancellor remained unfazed and, despite attempts to interrupt his speech, stated firmly, “We stand with Israel.”

Addressing the demonstrators directly, he added: “If those whose flag you carry lay down their weapons, the conflict would end within 24 hours. The problem is not the State of Israel, which is fighting for its existence and its right to live freely.”

The Chancellor spoke resolutely about Germany’s commitment to combating antisemitism “wherever it occurs” and vowed to ensure the country remains a place where Jews can move freely and openly. His words were met with applause from the audience.

Shliach Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal, Rabbi of Berlin, sent Merz a special message: “At the crucial moment, you demonstrated what true friendship with Israel and the Jewish people is. Your words are a moving beacon of truth in a diplomacy of lies.”

Merz has maintained a longstanding friendship with the Jewish community. “Over the years,” Rabbi Teichtal said, “he hosted us in his office to discuss advancing Jewish life in Berlin. It went far beyond mere courtesy.”

“On every occasion, he has shown strong support for the Jewish community, the Jewish people, and teretz Yisroel. He emphasized Germany’s historic responsibility to support Israel and fight antisemitism. The Chancellor speaks clearly against antisemitism and stresses the importance of protecting Jewish life in Germany.”

Each year, Rabbi Teichtal places a menorah at CDU headquarters. Last year, Merz participated in the lighting and offered a festive blessing, just one day after the horrific massacre in Australia – and only two years after his previous participation.

“When we first placed the menorah at his headquarters, Merz told me he was very happy the menorah was there, but even more that he was happy and wanted Yidishkeit to thrive in Germany,” Rabbi Teichtal recalled.

“Now, in the midst of the war, when the sides of light and darkness are clear to everyone, the German Chancellor speaks with clear and unequivocal statements,” he added. “This has many positive implications for Jewish life in Germany, and we are grateful to him for that.”