Baerbock issues caution against prolonged conflict in Gaza.
During her trip to Israel, Foreign Minister Baerbock presses for an end to the conflict in Gaza. The US-suggested multi-step peace agreement proposed by President Biden in late May, as Baerbock explained at a security convention in Herzliya, offers a "clear route" to this objective. This plan could bring about a truce, the release of Hamas hostages, and ultimately, "long-term safety for Israelis and Palestinians."
Baerbock implores Hamas to agree to this plan. "We strongly urge Hamas to accept this proposal," the Green Party politician declared. Hamas initiated the conflict. "And they must put an end to this tragedy," she stressed.
Baerbock recognizes that not every Israeli may welcome the US peace plan. "Some advocate for Israel maintaining control over the Gaza Strip and a perpetual war," she said. "I sincerely ask: How would an endless war better safeguard the families longing to return to their homes in Sderot, Kiryat Shmona? How would it alleviate the torment of the hostages' families? And how would ongoing suffering in Gaza bolster Israel's security?"
Israel has made "significant advances" in its attempts to curb Hamas' military power, Baerbock noted. It's also vital that Israel's Arab allies convene to discuss strategies for securing safety for both Israelis and Palestinians. "We should build upon that," Baerbock added.
Baerbock is scheduled to meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz in Jerusalem on the following Tuesday. She also intends to converse with the new Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa in Ramallah. Subsequently, Baerbock will journey to Lebanon, as she mentioned at the EU Foreign Ministers' meeting in Luxembourg, the escalating tensions at the border between Israel and Lebanon are "beyond concerning." Baerbock was in the Middle East at the end of April, where she met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu among others.
The conflict between Israel and the radical Islamic Hamas erupted on October 7, following an unparalleled attack by Hamas on Israel. According to Israeli reports, Islamic fighters have killed 1194 people and taken 251 people hostage in the Gaza Strip, 116 of whom are still in Palestinian territory. According to the Israeli army, 41 of these hostages have already been killed.
In response to the Hamas attack, Israel has been actively militarily engaged in the Gaza Strip since then. According to reports from the Hamas-governed Health Ministry, which cannot be independently verified, over 37,600 people have been killed during this period.
Read also:
- Annalena Baerbock discussed the US-proposed peace agreement during her visit to the Federal Foreign Office, advocating for its implementation in the Middle East conflict between Israel and the Gaza Strip.
- The German foreign minister urged Hamas to acknowledge the peace proposal, stating that their continued conflict in the Gaza Strip was causing suffering for both Israeli and Palestinian families.
- Baerbock emphasized the importance of Israel and its Arab allies working together to promote long-term safety in the region, acknowledging Israel's efforts to weaken Hamas' military power in the Gaza Strip during the Israel war.
- The Federal Foreign Office is closely monitoring the tensions between Israel and Lebanon, as Baerbock will be visiting Lebanon shortly to discuss the escalating situation, following her meetings with Israeli and Palestinian leaders to discuss the ongoing Middle East conflict.
