German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, ahead of her departure for Israel, the Palestinian territories, Egypt, and Lebanon, addressed the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. Baerbock’s statement, delivered on January 8, 2024, highlighted the three-month period of suffering caused by Hamas terrorism in Israel and Gaza.
She condemned Hamas for taking refuge behind civilians, exacerbating the desperate situation for hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza. Baerbock acknowledged the fear and uncertainty among Israelis regarding their abducted relatives and the continuous threat of rockets from Gaza.
In addition to the Israel-Gaza conflict, Baerbock expressed concern about the domestic political deadlock and economic challenges in Lebanon. She emphasized the potential for a single spark to ignite the entire region, pointing out the threats posed by Hezbollah and the Houthis in addition to the existing challenges.
The Foreign Minister called for an end to terrorism and the humanitarian plight of the people in the region. Baerbock urged Hamas to lay down its arms, while also emphasizing the need for Hezbollah and the Houthis to cease their actions. She highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in Gaza, addressing issues such as acute hunger, spreading epidemics, and the cold winter conditions.
Baerbock acknowledged Israel’s right and duty to defend itself against terrorism but called for improved protection for civilians during military actions. She stressed the importance of creating conditions for lasting peace and security in the region, emphasizing that both Israelis and Palestinians can only live side by side in peace when each acknowledges the suffering of the other.
Baerbock further emphasized the necessity of leaving no stone unturned on the path to a two-state solution for the region, reiterating the interconnectedness of the security of Israelis and Palestinians in achieving lasting peace.
