German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that 'Germany must stand up for the existence and security of Israel.'

'They had a state in Gaza and they tried to destroy the only Jewish state. Therefore Israel will not establish a state that will be committed to its destruction.'

Herzog called the two countries 'true friends' and strategic allies.

Israel’s president met Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Jerusalem, stressing the need to implement the Trump peace plan and further strengthen the strategic partnership between Israel and Germany.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed Berlin’s decision to reverse course, calling on other countries 'to adopt a similar decision.'