Germany's Wadephul Urges Israel for Safe Gaza Access Amid Humanitarian Crisis

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has called on Israel to immediately improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip by allowing safe and sufficient land access for aid deliveries. He emphasized that aid can only reach the starving population effectively by land and urged Israel to enable the UN and international aid organizations to provide safe access and distribution. Wadephul also urged for a ceasefire and an end to the war, pressing Hamas to release hostages and disarm, while warning Israel against escalating the situation further. Despite rising calls in Europe, Germany currently does not support recognizing a Palestinian state, maintaining that a negotiated two-state solution remains the only viable path to peace. Wadephul's visit included meetings with Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, as well as planned talks with Palestinian Authority officials in Ramallah. Germany remains committed to standing with Israel but is cautious about supporting sanctions or unilateral EU measures against Israel at this time.