German chancellor criticised over crying refugee girl

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is facing criticism over her treatment of a young refugee who had been threatened with deportation.

At a forum for young people, Mrs Merkel told the Palestinian girl, Reem, that not all migrants can stay in Germany and "some will have to go home".

When she noticed the girl was crying, Mrs Merkel went to comfort her.

Some social media users complained that Mrs Merkel had "petted" the girl and failed to show understanding, although others defended the leader's reaction.