German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is preparing for a forthcoming trip to the Middle East with the stated intention of intensifying pressure on Israel. Addressing reporters on Thursday ahead of his departure for Israel and the Palestinian territories, Wadephul reiterated Germany’s firm conviction that a negotiated two-state solution remains the sole pathway to a sustainable resolution of the conflict, enabling a future of peace, security and dignity for people on both sides.
While acknowledging that the formal recognition of a Palestinian state is likely to occur later in the process, Wadephul emphasized that initiating such a process is crucial and affirmed Germany’s unwavering commitment to this objective. He indicated that Germany would be compelled to respond to any unilateral actions undertaken.
The Minister reaffirmed Germany’s continued support for Israel’s demands regarding Hamas, calling for the immediate release of hostages, including German citizens and for the organization to be disarmed and to relinquish all political influence within the Palestinian territories. Simultaneously, Wadephul stressed the urgent need for Israel to immediately implement comprehensive and sustainable measures to alleviate the devastating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
