The German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, has firmly opposed Israel's proposal to maintain control over the Gaza Strip following the conclusion of the conflict with Hamas.
Baerbock, speaking to the German media group "Funke" on Friday, emphasized that it is essential for Israel to relinquish the notion of governing Gaza after the war. She stressed that the Palestinians, excluding Hamas and terrorism, should have the autonomy to determine their future, noting the existence of a democratically elected government representing all Palestinians, including those in the West Bank.
Asserting that such a transition may not occur immediately, Baerbock underscored the importance of maintaining a political vision amid the ongoing conflict.
The German government, she revealed, is actively collaborating with Arab partners to ensure the viability of the two-state solution. This collaborative effort includes initiatives aimed at bolstering civilian infrastructure, reforming Palestinian governance structures, promoting economic recovery, and enhancing security arrangements to provide assurances for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Furthermore, Baerbock highlighted the detrimental impact of Israel's settlement policy, cautioning that it not only obstructs the establishment of a Palestinian state but also undermines prospects for lasting peace. She emphasized that genuine peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians can only be achieved through the realization of a two-state solution.
Baerbock's remarks come in response to Israel's controversial announcement regarding the annexation of approximately 800 hectares of land in the West Bank, a move that has elicited widespread international concern.
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