Israel: Baerbock issues warning on prolonged conflict in Gaza
The Biden administration's plan may potentially bring a truce and the liberation of Hamas captives, promising "durable safety for Israelis and Palestinians," Baerbock stated in her speech. She implores Hamas to agree to this peace plan. The radical Palestinian Islamic group initiated this conflict, the Foreign Minister insisted. "It's high time they halt this nightmare," she concluded.
Baerbock admitted that not all in Israel endorse the proposals offered by Biden. "Some advocate Israel maintaining dominion over the Gaza Strip and a conflict without end," she said candidly. "I'd like to ask honestly: How would an everlasting war benefit the security of families aiming to return to their homes in Sderot, in Kiryat Shmona? How would it end the turmoil of the hostages' families? And how would prolonged suffering in Gaza offer more security for Israel?"
Israel has made "significant strides" in its attempts to weaken Hamas' military capacity, Baerbock highlight. It's also essential that Israel's Arab neighbors are collaborating to establish security for both Israelis and Palestinians. "Let's build upon that," the Green politician added.
Moreover, Baerbock emphasized the importance of a two-state solution, which she believes is "the most viable path to enduring peace." She also supported reforming the Palestinian Autonomy Authority - without dismantling the structures she had a hand in creating.
During the conference, US Ambassador to Israel Jacob Lew also voiced similar opinions. In the aftermath of the Gaza Strip war, he said, "civil order and administration" are essential for the coastal region. The US government believes that "the Palestinian Autonomy Authority should be part of that." Furthermore, he confirmed the US's support for a two-state solution.
Baerbock is due to meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz in Jerusalem on Tuesday. She also intends to converse with the new Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa in Ramallah.
Baerbock will then voyage to Lebanon. The mounting tension at the Israel-Lebanon border, which she labeled "far more than alarming" at the EU Foreign Ministers' meeting in Luxembourg, was the final topic she addressed. Her most recent visit to the Middle East was at the end of April, where she conversed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, among others.
The conflict between Israel and the radical Islamic Hamas started on October 7 as a result of Hamas' unparalleled attack on Israel, according to Israeli reports. Islamic militants reportedly killed 1,194 people and abducted 251 hosts into the Gaza Strip, of whom 116 are still in the Palestinian territory. According to the Israeli army, 41 of these captives have already been slain.
In response to the Hamas attack, Israel has been militarily engaged in the Gaza Strip ever since. According to the health ministry in the Hamas-controlled territory, which cannot be independently verified, over 37,600 people have perished in the meantime.
