Federal government invites conflicting parties to ceasefire negotiations
After the Israeli air raid in the southern Gaza Strip, which resulted in dozens of deaths, the German government has appealed to the conflict parties to intensify negotiations for a ceasefire. "This ceasefire is urgently necessary to achieve the release of hostages and alleviate the humanitarian crisis of civilians in Gaza," said a spokesperson for the Foreign Office in Berlin.
Israel's attack on Saturday near Khan Younis targeted leading Hamas representatives. Dozens of people were killed in the incident. Reports suggesting that the ongoing indirect talks between the conflict parties might be suspended have been denied by a Hamas political wing representative.
The Foreign Office spokesperson emphasized in Berlin that the Israeli army is obliged to protect civilians in their actions: "Every child who dies in Gaza is one too many." At the same time, he expressed regret that Hamas regularly hides behind civilians: "Hamas is thus violating the Geneva Conventions every day."
Following the denied reports of suspension of the indirect talks, the Federal government urged for accelerated arms negotiations after the air raid, acknowledging the need for a swift ceasefire. This is crucial, as continued conflict exposes civilians in Gaza to further danger, with Hamas's frequent usage of civilians as human shields breaching international laws.
