May 12, 2025: German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier met with the Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Berlin to commemorate the 60th anniversaey of the diplomatic relations between Germany and Israel. The meeting was held at Bellevue Palace and was marked by both celebration and serious discussion, particularly concerning the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
During a joint press conference their talks, President Steigmeier expressed deep concern river the deteriorating conditions in Gaza. He urged President Herzog to ensure the immediate delivery
During a joint press conference following tof humanitarian aid to the region over the deteriorating conditions in Gaza. He called upon President Herzog to secure the prompt provision of humanitarian assistance to the area and bring an end to the blockade that has choked off access to vital supplies. Steinmeier underlined the nature of the crisis when he said, “I ask you to commit yourselves to make sure that humanitarian aid can be delivered to people and civilians.”
German president recognized the increasing plight of civilians inside the Gaza Strip, which German media has widely reported. He mentioned that the conflict and the siege have created a disastrous humanitarian crisis, with food security specialists raising alarm on the possibility of famine due to the blockade cutting off food, medicine, and fuel.
President Herzog, in turn, urged the international community to endorse a fresh plan for the delivery of aid in Gaza aimed at sending humanitarian aid straight to Gazans in a way that excludes the involvement of Hamas. He issued a call to international bodies, including the United Nations and NGOs, to examine and join the initiative.
The summit also provided a time for reflection on the historical context of the Germany-Israel alliance. Steinmeier underscored the significance of the 60-year alliance, declaring, “With this double visit, we are honoring not only the anniversary but also the special meaning of the relationship between Israel and Germany.” He underlined the lessons that could be drawn from the two nations’ reconciliation, saying, “Peace is possible. Reconciliation is possible.”
With the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalating by the day, the international community, including Germany, is putting more pressure on Israel to enable the free passage of humanitarian assistance. The European Union will also consider its relationship with Israel, including the EU-Israel Association Agreement, in response to the current blockade and humanitarian issues.
The summit of Presidents Steinmeier and Herzog highlights the delicate tightrope between preserving robust diplomatic relations and responding to urgent humanitarian challenges. Germany’s appeal for swift action confirms a developing international consensus regarding the necessity to reduce civilians’ suffering in Gaza and to work towards resolving the conflict peacefully. Keep Reading Quest Euro.com
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