For decades, Germany has stood squarely in Israel’s corner, its dark history of Jewish persecution shaping its modern-day policy of virtually unquestioned backing.

Some E.U. states are calling for a full suspension of trade relations. Others are trying to distance themselves from the grisly images emerging from the enclave.

To harm the civilian population to such an extent,” the German chancellor said, “can no longer be justified as a fight against Hamas terrorism.”