German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul urged the Israeli government on Sunday during his trip to Israel to re-engage in serious negotiations on a ceasefire deal with the Palestinian Hamas militant group in the Gaza Strip.
In view of the renewed intensification of Israel’s military action since March, Wadephul said at a meeting with his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar in Jerusalem: “I am not sure whether all of Israel’s strategic goals can be achieved in this way, whether this will serve Israel’s security in the long term.”
During his inaugural visit to Israel, Wadephul warned that a ceasefire must pave the way for permanent supplies to the Palestinian population in Gaza.
No humanitarian aid has been arriving there for 70 days and the great human need is worsening every day, he said.
The German minister acknowledged Israel’s concern that aid should reach civilians, not Hamas, which he said “has abused such aid in the past.”
Wadephul also clearly articulated the position of Germany’s new government, which took office last week, emphasizing its commitment to a peaceful resolution between Israel and the Palestinians.
He stressed that the reconstruction of Gaza must be tied to a political solution – one that excludes Hamas and ensures the group can no longer threaten Israel.
In this context, Wadephul described the Arab reconstruction plan, which envisions a strong role for the Palestinian Authority (PA), as a promising foundation.
At the same time, he underscored that the Gaza Strip must remain an integral part of the Palestinian territories, noting that any Israeli military presence in Gaza should be temporary, a view he said was widely shared.
These remarks come amid concerns that Israel may seek a permanent occupation of Gaza or the displacement of its Palestinian population.
Johann Wadephul (L), Foreign Minister, stands next to Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel, after a meeting at the head of government’s official residence. Wadephul is on his two-day inaugural visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories. Michael Kappeler/dpa
DJ Kamal Mustafa
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