German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said in Jerusalem on Sunday that Gaza’s conflict could not be solved by military means, according to Reuters.
Wadephul indicated that only a political solution is the way to put a permanent end to the ongoing war.
“I do not believe that this conflict can be permanently resolved by military means,” Wadephul said. “Nevertheless, it is urgently necessary that Hamas is disarmed and that it can no longer have military control over Gaza.”
In this regard, he said that Germany would do whatever it takes to ensure Israel’s security. However, this does not mean that his country cannot criticize Israel’s actions, noting that this “must not lead to antisemitism.”
Hamas’ attacks on October 7, 2023, killed 1,200 people and 251 were taken hostage back to Gaza, according to Israel.
Meanwhile, Israel’s airstrikes have killed over 52,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, Hamas-run health authorities reported.
“I am not sure whether all of Israel’s strategic goals can be achieved in this way (through a military campaign) and whether this will serve Israel’s security in the long term,” Wadephul said. “That is why we are appealing for a return to serious negotiations on a ceasefire.”
Importantly, he mentioned that German government’s priority is the return of hostages.
Moreover, he said that it was clear that Gaza is part of the Palestinian territory.
As for the reconstruction of Gaza, Wadephul said “We need a political solution for the reconstruction of Gaza without Hamas.”
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