Germany Urges Restraint, Seeks Peace Amid Gaza Conflict

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has condemned Germany for what he described as ignoring Israel's actions against Gaza, calling them genocide and urging humanitarian intervention alongside Germany's Red Cross and the Turkish Red Crescent. Despite a fragile US-brokered ceasefire, Israel resumed bombardments on Gaza after an attack killed an Israeli soldier, resulting in significant civilian casualties, mostly women and children. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reaffirmed Germany's unwavering support for Israel and the Jewish people, acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense against Hamas following the October 7 attacks, while emphasizing that Germany does not unconditionally support all Israeli government decisions. Merz expressed hope for a lasting peace without Hamas, advocating for international involvement and governance excluding Hamas. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called for both Israel and Hamas to adhere to the ceasefire agreement, urging Hamas to disarm and return hostages' remains and Israel to exercise military restraint to prevent further suffering. Wadephul conveyed deep concern over renewed fighting and the humanitarian impact, emphasizing the need for a durable peace facilitated by key international actors including the US, Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt.