Berlin (CHATNEWSTV) – German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock hailed the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as a critical step toward relief and recovery in the Gaza region, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and the pursuit of a lasting political solution.
“Today is a day of relief,” Baerbock said in a statement released Thursday. “Relief that the suffering on all sides can now end. The agreement on the release of the hostages and the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas will not only save lives but give people in Gaza, the hostages and their families, as well as everyone in the region, tangible hope after 15 months.”
Baerbock extended her thoughts to German nationals held hostage by Hamas for 467 days. “I fervently hope that they will now be able to return home to their families very soon,” she said.
The foreign minister expressed gratitude to international negotiators who worked tirelessly to secure the ceasefire, urging all parties to respect its terms. She called for the immediate release of hostages, large-scale humanitarian assistance for Gaza, and the military withdrawal necessary for displaced Palestinians to return to their homes.
“The people of Gaza lack everything – food, medical care, and emergency accommodation,” Baerbock said. “The Israeli Government must now finally honour its pledges and allow safe access for humanitarian goods and aid workers – without any restrictions.”
Baerbock stressed that the ceasefire offers a critical opportunity to restart political dialogue, pointing to a two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace. “We cannot let this opportunity slip through our fingers,” she said.
Germany, she noted, remains committed to supporting UN efforts and standing “shoulder to shoulder with all those working for peace and security in the region.”