Merz and Erdogan Clash Over Gaza but Deepen Defense Ties

Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz made his first official visit to Turkey, meeting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara to discuss a range of strategic issues including migration, defense, and regional security. While the meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and support Turkey’s European Union aspirations, sharp disagreements emerged over the Gaza conflict and human rights concerns in Turkey.

Germany Calls Turkey a Key EU Partner

During the joint press conference, Chancellor Merz reaffirmed that Germany considers Turkey a crucial partner for Europe. He emphasized that both countries share deep social and economic links and must continue to cooperate closely, particularly in defense and energy matters. Merz described the partnership as essential for maintaining stability across the Euro-Atlantic region, highlighting Turkey’s role as a NATO member and its growing importance in managing migration and regional conflicts.

Merz stressed that Germany continues to support Turkey’s long-standing EU membership ambitions but urged Ankara to advance reforms in the areas of rule of law and judicial independence. He pointed to recent developments in Turkey that, in his view, fall short of European standards. “There have been decisions that do not yet fully meet the Copenhagen criteria,” Merz stated, referring to the conditions countries must fulfill to join the European Union.

Tension Over Gaza and Human Rights

The most heated exchange came when the two leaders addressed the ongoing war in Gaza. Merz made clear that Germany “will always stand firmly by the side of the State of Israel,” describing Israel as a refuge for millions of Jews, including Holocaust survivors. He also said Hamas could have ended the war earlier by releasing hostages and laying down arms.

Erdogan strongly rejected that interpretation, accusing Israel of “genocide” and “starvation” in Gaza. The Turkish president condemned Germany’s continued political support for Israel and insisted that it was the humanitarian duty of all nations, including Germany, to help stop what he described as “massacres.” He said, “Does Germany not see these?” as he criticized Western nations for what he views as their silence over civilian suffering in the region.

Despite the sharp exchange, both leaders acknowledged Turkey’s role in mediating the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Merz thanked Erdogan for Turkey’s mediation efforts and urged him to use his influence to stabilize the truce and push Hamas to comply with ongoing peace agreements.

The Imamoglu Case and Rule of Law Concerns

Merz also used the visit to raise concerns about the rule of law in Turkey, particularly following the arrest of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu. The popular opposition figure has been detained since March on corruption and espionage charges, which he denies. The case has become a symbol of growing political repression in Turkey.

When asked about Imamoglu, Erdogan defended the judiciary’s independence and stated that “no one is above the law.” However, Merz remarked that certain developments in Turkey “do not correspond to our understanding of the rule of law.” He emphasized that Germany would continue to discuss these matters openly with Ankara while maintaining its strategic partnership.

Defense Cooperation Strengthens Despite Disputes

Beyond political disagreements, both leaders found common ground on defense and security. Merz welcomed Turkey’s decision to purchase 20 Eurofighter jets in cooperation with Germany and other NATO partners, calling it a step toward strengthening collective defense capabilities. “Russia’s militant revisionism jeopardizes Euro-Atlantic security as a whole,” Merz said, describing the deal as a valuable contribution to NATO’s deterrence strategy.

Erdogan agreed that Europe’s changing security environment requires closer collaboration. He urged both countries to overcome bureaucratic hurdles in defense procurement and focus instead on joint technological projects. “We must leave behind problems and concentrate on common goals,” Erdogan stated, adding that Turkey sees Germany as a trusted defense partner.

Broader Regional and Migration Issues

The leaders also discussed Turkey’s role in mediating between Russia and Ukraine. Although Erdogan has hosted talks between both sides, progress toward peace has been limited. Turkey continues to balance relations with both Moscow and Kyiv—supplying weapons to Ukraine while declining to participate in EU sanctions against Russia. Merz encouraged more consistent coordination with European partners to strengthen unity against Russian aggression.

Migration was another central theme. Merz expressed his wish to improve cooperation with Turkey on the return of rejected asylum seekers. The two countries are working on new agreements to facilitate repatriations, including for Syrians who entered Germany through Turkey. Merz said he was confident that “further progress will be achieved soon.”

A Diplomatic Balancing Act

Despite the disagreements over Gaza and domestic policies, both sides presented the visit as a new chapter in bilateral relations. Merz described the partnership as “broad and deep in a unique way,” emphasizing shared economic interests, the presence of millions of people with Turkish roots in Germany, and joint NATO commitments.

Erdogan, for his part, stressed the importance of family and cultural diplomacy, hosting Merz and his wife, Charlotte, with ceremonial honors. Their joint appearance, including participation in wreath-laying ceremonies and state receptions, was interpreted as an effort to demonstrate personal warmth amid political complexity.

The meeting underscored that, while Germany and Turkey remain divided over human rights and Middle Eastern policy, both recognize the strategic need to maintain cooperation in defense, trade, and migration. As the geopolitical landscape shifts, Berlin and Ankara are seeking a pragmatic partnership that balances moral criticism with mutual necessity.