Germany urges Israel to fully respect Gaza ceasefire, allow more aid

Germany has issued a direct appeal to Israel, urging it to fully comply with the ceasefire in Gaza and to facilitate a major increase in the flow of humanitarian aid to the besieged population. The call from Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul marks a clear diplomatic stance from Berlin, a key Israeli ally, emphasizing that all parties must honor the truce agreement reached on October 10.

A Public Appeal for Compliance and Aid

Speaking at a joint press conference in Berlin with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Wadephul stated, "Israel, too, must adhere to the ceasefire and, in particular, facilitate even more humanitarian aid. We repeatedly emphasize this to our interlocutors in Israel." He stressed that "the most important thing" is for all sides to participate fully in implementing the first phase of the ceasefire. His comments come amid reports of continued Israeli strikes in Gaza since the truce began, which have resulted in Palestinian casualties.

Focus on Post-Conflict Security and Reconstruction

Looking beyond the immediate ceasefire, Minister Wadephul highlighted the future need for a "stabilization mission to ensure security in Gaza." This aligns with ongoing international discussions about post-conflict governance and security arrangements for the devastated enclave. Furthermore, Wadephul expressed Germany's readiness to support and participate in an EU-led mission to train Palestinian police forces, indicating Berlin's commitment to playing a role in long-term stabilization efforts.

Context of Devastation and Ongoing Diplomacy

The German appeal is set against the backdrop of a catastrophic two-year war that Palestinian health authorities say has killed over 70,000 people and left Gaza's infrastructure in ruins. While Germany has been a staunch defender of Israel's right to self-defense, Wadephul's remarks reflect growing European concern over the humanitarian catastrophe and the fragility of the current truce. The joint press conference with Egypt also underscored coordinated efforts with regional partners to address both immediate relief and the complex political path forward.