Merz reaffirms Palestinian state support; Netanyahu reiterates opposition

• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for the creation of a Palestinian state during his visit to Israel.
• Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his firm opposition to a Palestinian state, citing overwhelming public opposition.
• Merz and Netanyahu expressed sharply different views on the future of Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
• Merz emphasized Germany's "enduring historical responsibility" for the Holocaust and commitment to Israel's security.
• Netanyahu claimed a Palestinian state's purpose is to destroy the Jewish state and discussed Trump's Gaza plan.

Why It Matters: German Chancellor's Palestinian state call shows key ally's stance vs. Israeli PM.