German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in a rare moment where she was directly confronted with the results of policies she champions, met with Reem, a Palestinian girl whose family faces the threat of deportation. In the televized meeting, she rubbed the shoulder of a crying teen who – according to the girl in fluent Germany – was one of “thousands and thousands” of refugees.

“I have goals like anyone else. i want to study like them,” said Reem. “It’s very unpleasant to see how others can enjoy life, and I can’t myself.”

In response, Merkel said she understood, but couldn’t help. “Politics is sometimes hard. You’re in front of me now and you’re an extremly likeable person. But you also know in the Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon are thousands and thousands and if we were to say you can all come, we just can’t manage.”

Upon seeing the young girl cry, Merkel said “oh Gott” and started stroking her shoulder.

The scene went viral on social media just as the publication of new data showing that German towns were struggling to accommodate the large numcers of refugees entering the country.