Ashraf AboArafe
Regarding the future of the Gaza Strip, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated on February 5:
Gaza is in ruins, and the scale of the destruction is shocking. We all agree that Gaza must be rebuilt as quickly as possible. The homes, hospitals and schools, or the removal of unexploded ordnance and bombs, will require a massive international commitment. We Europeans are ready to make our contribution together with the United States and our partners in the region.
The civilian population in Gaza, and the many families currently returning to the ruins of their homes, need our help for a future on their own land – in security, dignity and peaceful coexistence with Israel. They also need a real political perspective. We agree that Hamas terrorists should play no role in Gaza in the future. This is a matter of Israel’s security as much as it is of the region’s security.
At the same time, it is clear that Gaza – like the West Bank and East Jerusalem – belongs to the Palestinians. They are the starting point for a future Palestinian state.
Displacing the Palestinian civilian population from Gaza would not only be unacceptable, it would also be contrary to international law. This would also lead to new suffering and new hatred. That is why we in the G7, the EU and the UN have made it clear from the outset that the civilian population of Gaza must not be displaced, that Gaza must not be occupied permanently or re-settled. No solution must pass over the heads of the Palestinians. A negotiated two-state solution remains the only solution that will enable Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace, security and dignity. This is also the clear position of the Arab states in the region.
Today I am also thinking of the hostages still being held by Hamas. All efforts must now be directed towards implementing the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. Otherwise, the lives of the hostages, including German citizens, will be at stake. The opportunity to free them must not be lost.
