By Alexander Ratz
Jerusalem (Reuters) – The conflict in Gaza cannot be resolved by military means and a political solution must be found to end the war permanently, German Minister of Foreign Affairs Johann Wadephul in Jerusalem said on Sunday.
“I do not think that this conflict can be resolved permanently by military means,” said Wadephul. “Nevertheless, it is urgent that Hamas is disarmed and that it can no longer have military control over Gaza.”
He said that Germany would do everything it takes to guarantee the security of Israel, but that does not mean that his country cannot criticize Israel's conduct, adding that it should not lead to anti -Semitism “.
Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023 killed 1,200 people and 251 were brought back hostage to Gaza, according to Israel. Israel’s campaign has killed more than 52,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, according to health authorities managed by Hamas.
“I do not know if all the strategic objectives of Israel can be achieved in this way (thanks to a military campaign) and if it will serve the security of Israel in the long term,” said Wadephul. “This is why we call a return to serious negotiations on a ceasefire.”
Wadephul repeated that the return of hostages is the priority of the German government. He also said it was clear that Gaza was part of the Palestinian territory.
“We need a political solution for the reconstruction of Gaza without Hamas,” said Wadephul.
(Report by Alexander Ratz, written by Maria Martinez; edition by Elaine Hardcastle and Ros Russell)
