Ashraf AboArafe
German Foreign Minister Baerbock described the situation in Gaza, and in the Middle East in general, as particularly dangerous.
She said: “The end of the ceasefire in Gaza due to intensified Israeli attacks is deeply worrying. The images of burning tents in refugee camps are shocking. Fleeing children and internally displaced persons, covered in blood, should never be used as leverage in negotiations. I would like to emphasize that international law includes the principle of proportionality in cases of self-defense.”
Baerbock added, “With the resumption of fighting, the fate of the remaining hostages, as well as the future of people in Israel, Gaza, and the entire Middle East, is now hanging by a very thin thread. The suffering and the worsening of suffering are leading to unimaginable suffering on all sides. I therefore call on everyone to respect international humanitarian law and return to the talks.”
Baerbock recommended that it is in everyone’s interest to take steps toward a permanent solution to the conflict. To this end, talks on the second phase of the ceasefire, as well as on the release of additional hostages, must resume immediately.
Baerbock called on the United States in particular to now use its regional influence and leverage in this regard, as the security of the entire Middle East is also affected. This will also be a topic of discussion during my talks in Lebanon, where I will travel tomorrow morning.
