German President Presses Israel to Lift Gaza Aid Blockade, Urges Swift Humanitarian Access
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called on Israel to urgently lift its blockade on Gaza and allow the swift delivery of humanitarian aid, amid rising concerns over the worsening crisis in the Palestinian enclave.
Speaking alongside Israeli President Isaac Herzog during a state visit in Berlin on Monday, Steinmeier emphasized the growing suffering of civilians in Gaza, which has drawn significant attention in Germany.
“I ask you to commit yourselves to make sure that humanitarian aid can be delivered to people and civilians in Gaza quickly. The blockade against humanitarian aid needs to be lifted,” he told Herzog at a joint press event following their talks at Bellevue Palace.
The visit marked 60 years of diplomatic relations between Israel and Germany. Steinmeier said the occasion underscored the “unique significance” of the bilateral partnership, and highlighted the historical reconciliation between the two nations as a beacon of hope.
“Maybe this unique history of reconciliation between Germany and Israel can be a shimmer of hope for our own history, particularly in these times, and should be a reason for hope for others. Peace is possible. Reconciliation is possible,” he said.
Steinmeier noted that the impact of the Gaza conflict is being deeply felt by many in Germany, saying: “Nobody is being left untouched by that.”
He stressed the importance of open dialogue between allies, thanking Herzog for what he described as an “open and frank exchange” during challenging times. The German president also called for a ceasefire and demanded the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
“Everything needs to be done to avoid an even deeper humanitarian crisis in Gaza,” he said. “Peace will only be possible if we can understand the solution on the horizon.”
In response, Herzog urged international organizations to engage with Israel’s proposals: “We call upon the international community, NGOs, and UN agencies to study our plan in-depth and join us in helping the people of Gaza.”
The conflict, which escalated in October 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 52,800 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to local health authorities.
The International Criminal Court last year issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice over its military campaign in Gaza.
