German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made his first official visit to Israel amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and rising tensions in the West Bank. The trip, though brief, highlighted the enduring partnership between Germany and Israel, even as both countries acknowledged differences, particularly regarding the Palestinian issue and the two-state solution. Merz reiterated Germany's support for a two-state solution but maintained the country's refusal to recognize Palestinian statehood at this time, aligning with longstanding German policy. While Germany recently suspended, then resumed, some arms deliveries to Israel, defense cooperation remains strong. However, observers note that Germany's influence on political developments in the region is limited, with key decisions being made in Washington, and Israeli leaders focused on their relationship with the United States.