in Palestine Saturday 7 November Sun 40° and falling · sets into Gaza’s sea at 16:48Sun 40° · sets 16:48 Previewing
inpalestinetoday Bringing the world closer to Palestine, one story at a time.
Get The Day by email

The Day · Monday 8 December 2025

Filed 01:32 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · World

00:00–05:30Night

Sun −79° to −12° · dawn 05:30

Night

German Chancellor Merz Backs US Peace Plan in Call with President Abbas

German Chancellor Merz expressed support for the US peace plan during a phone call with Palestinian President Abbas. The conversation focused on the US-led initiative, as affirmed by the German leader. No additional details were disclosed during the exchange.

VILNIUS, LITHUANIA – MAY 22: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda (not seen) hold joint press conference after their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Vilnius during his visit for the inauguration of the German 45th Armored Brigade “Lithuania on May 22, 2025. ( Yauhen Yerchak – Anadolu Agency )

German Chancellor Merz has voiced support for the US peace plan in a phone call with Palestinian President Abbas. The communication, as reported, centered on the peace proposal put forth by the United States, with Merz expressing backing for the initiative. The call highlighted Berlin’s stated alignment with Washington’s vision for resolution, as Merz conveyed affirmation during the direct exchange with Abbas.

The German Chancellor’s position was made clear during the conversation, which did not include any additional publicly stated outcomes or clarifications. President Abbas, from his side, participated in the exchange, with the focus remaining on the US plan as the central topic. There were no public statements given beyond Merz’s endorsement of the proposal.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian leadership continues to engage in diplomatic interactions amid ongoing conditions. The phone call stands as a key moment in reflecting external positions on the proposed US direction regarding the political situation. The exchange between Merz and Abbas situates Germany within the scope of actors expressing positions on the matter, through support voiced at the leadership level.

In addition, the call came at a time when various international stances are being observed carefully by Palestinian officials. Merz’s comments underscore where Berlin stands in alignment with Washington’s political framework. The communication between the two leaders remains a singular development based on the public disclosure, with no further elaboration provided from either office.

From its side, the Palestinian presidency has not released a detailed statement regarding its response to Merz’s support for the US peace plan. The call, however, remains a documentable instance of international engagement involving the German Chancellor and President Abbas. The official endorsement of the US initiative by Merz signifies a continuation of established policy gestures from the German government in support of American-led proposals.

Observers note that the tone of the exchange, as described, indicates consistency in foreign policy from Berlin, with Merz’s position aligning with that of Washington. The direct communication underscores the diplomatic engagements continuing amid the broader situation. With no reported objections or qualifications from Merz during the call, the endorsement is taken as full support for the US peace plan, as conveyed to Abbas.

The conversation adds to the ongoing record of communications between European capitals and the Palestinian leadership, with each such call offering insight into the geopolitical landscape. For now, the discussion as publicized remains focused strictly on the US peace plan and the German leader’s affirmation of it. The field continues to follow any developments or shifts in the discourse that may follow from this latest diplomatic contact.

8 Dec, 01:32

The rest of the day

  • Qatari Prime Minister: Gaza Ceasefire Incomplete Without West Bank

    The Qatari prime minister stated that any ceasefire in Gaza remains incomplete if it does not include the West Bank. The remarks underline a broader stance emphasizing the unity of Palestinian territories in any truce efforts. The comment reflects a critical view of partial agreements that overlook key parts of the Palestinian landscape.

  • Syrian President Issues Warning to Israel Over 1974 Ceasefire Agreement

    The Syrian president has issued a warning to Israel, urging it not to tamper with the 1974 ceasefire agreement. The statement underscores Damascus’s position amidst rising tensions. No further details have been provided about the context or consequences of the warning.

  • Egypt Proposes International Stabilization Force Along Gaza’s ‘Yellow Line’ to Monitor Ceasefire

    Egypt has called for the deployment of an international stabilization force along Gaza’s ‘yellow line’ to verify the implementation of a ceasefire. The proposal signals a move towards external verification on the ground as efforts continue to address ceasefire adherence in the region.

  • Italy’s RAI supports Israel’s Eurovision participation and confirms its own entry

    Italy’s public broadcaster RAI has expressed support for Israel’s continued participation in the Eurovision contest, while also confirming Italy’s own entry into the event. The announcement aligns RAI with Israel’s presence in the competition, amid heightened attention on participating broadcasters’ positions.

  • Turkiye-Egypt Defense Cooperation Unveils Aqrab Unmanned Ground Vehicle

    In a new development signaling growing defense collaboration, Turkiye and Egypt have jointly produced the Aqrab unmanned ground vehicle. The announcement marks a step in the two countries’ cooperation, focusing on advanced military capabilities without disclosing further specifics. The project highlights bilateral engagements amidst shifting regional dynamics.

  • Syrian President Holds Talks with Lebanese Prime Minister and Qatar’s Emir in Doha

    The Syrian president held meetings with the Lebanese prime minister and the Emir of Qatar in Doha. The gatherings reflect ongoing diplomatic engagement among regional leaders. The meetings come amid persistent tensions in the region. No additional details regarding the agenda or outcomes were disclosed in the title.

  • German Greens Call on Chancellor to Increase Pressure on Netanyahu Over Settlements

    The German Green Party has urged the chancellor to escalate political pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in relation to his settlement policy. The call reflects growing concern within the party regarding ongoing settlement activities. There has been no immediate response from the chancellor. The demand highlights divisions in German politics regarding Israel’s policies.

  • Turkiye Vows Full Support for Gaza Peace Efforts, Says Foreign Minister

    Turkiye has declared its commitment to supporting ongoing efforts aimed at establishing peace in Gaza. According to the foreign minister, Ankara stands ready to do ‘whatever it takes’ to contribute to the process. This announcement comes as diplomatic movements seeking resolution continue. Turkiye’s stance underscores its involvement and willingness to play a decisive role in peace initiatives focused on Gaza.

  • Israeli Drone Strike Kills 2 Palestinians in Gaza Amid Ceasefire

    An Israeli drone strike resulted in the killing of 2 Palestinians in Gaza, despite a declared ceasefire. The incident raises questions about the enforcement of the ceasefire and the ongoing reality on the ground. Tensions remain high as residents confront continued threats despite agreements aimed at de-escalation.

  • Gaza Ceasefire Fails to Halt Ongoing Atrocities

    Despite declarations of a Gaza ceasefire, reports indicate that atrocities continue unabated. The so-called pause has brought little change, as developments on the ground reflect ongoing violations. Questions remain over the effectiveness and intent of the ceasefire, while civilians continue to endure the consequences.

The Day, at first light

The running order in your inbox as the sky over Palestine starts to lighten. Tomorrow that is 05:36 Palestine time, and a little later each day.

inpalestinetoday