Germany’s Minister for International Development, Reem Alabali Radovan (SPD), told the “Rheinische Post” that Europe is duty‑bound to take a leading role in de‑escalating the Middle‑Eastern conflict. “The war does not take place on European soil, but its repercussions reach us politically, economically and human‑wagely” she said. “Peace and stability in the region can therefore not be left solely to regional actors; it is a shared responsibility of Europe and the broader international community to push for de‑escalation, protect civilians and create pathways to lasting peace”.
Alabali Radovan explained that years of joint development cooperation with partners have built trust, infrastructure and future prospects that now hang in the balance. “Wars destroy in a short time what has been cultivated over many years. The immediate damage falls on people on the ground, while the long‑term consequences affect the entire international community” she added.
A particularly stark example, she noted, is the situation in Lebanon. “The armed clashes between Hezbollah and Israel have already displaced more than 660,000 people. Many were forced to flee abruptly and could take hardly anything with them” she said. “Working with our partners, we respond swiftly and pragmatically, adjusting our projects to help those affected as effectively as possible-especially women and children”.
She also warned of the “devastating” impact of the war in Gaza: “We must continually underline that the fate of civilians should never become a side topic of a conflict. Their protection lies at the very core of our responsibility”.
Regarding the West Bank, Alabali Radovan said Palestinians are “repeatedly exposed to violence by radical Israeli settlers”. “Attacks on non‑combatants are unacceptable” she stressed. “The protection of people and adherence to international humanitarian law must apply to everyone”.
