BERLIN (Chatnewstv.com) — German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told lawmakers Friday that Germany must shoulder greater international responsibility, warning of mounting global crises from Gaza to Sudan, as well as growing security threats in Europe.
Addressing the Bundestag during debate on the 2026 budget, Wadephul said he had just returned from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he discussed conflicts dominating world politics.
“This is about peace and security, about managing global crises and, of course, about responsibility,” Wadephul said.
On the Middle East, he described conditions in Gaza as “hell on Earth,” citing hostages held for more than 700 days and widespread hunger. He reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to a two-state solution while stressing support for Israel’s security.
“Germany stands, of course, always by Israel’s side, in a spirit of friendship and with a great sense of duty,” he said. “But we’re also talking to the Palestinians, to the Arab world, to help ensure that this conflict is finally brought to an end.”
Turning to Iran, Wadephul said Germany and its E3 partners — France and the United Kingdom — had triggered the “snap-back” mechanism to reimpose sanctions after Tehran disregarded its nuclear commitments.
“It’s clear to us that Iran must not be allowed to get its hands on nuclear weapons,” he said.
“If Iran has nuclear weapons, then we will have a disastrous arms race in the Gulf region.”
The minister also condemned Russia for repeated violations of NATO airspace, including what he called an “unacceptable” 12-minute incursion by Russian fighter jets over Estonia.
“Russia must know without a doubt that we will defend every inch of NATO territory, together and in a spirit of solidarity,” he said.
Beyond headline conflicts, Wadephul warned that overlooked crises such as Sudan risk spiraling further, noting that 30 million people there depend on humanitarian aid. He urged lawmakers to increase funding.
“Humanitarian assistance isn’t a luxury,” Wadephul said.
“It is an investment in a world that must be more stable, more secure and more peaceful.”
He added that Germany would continue to support the UN system and announced Berlin’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027-2028.
“We’re assuming responsibility and we believe in the United Nations system,” Wadephul said.
“We’re prepared to assume responsibility for freedom, security and prosperity.”
Editor: Gabriel Ani
