UK, Germany call for progress in Gaza cease-fire talks

BERLIN

Germany and the UK on Wednesday called for progress in cease-fire talks between Hamas and Israel, and urged Israeli authorities to allow unhindered humanitarian access into Gaza.

Speaking at a joint news conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Berlin, Chancellor Olaf Scholz said they were both “deeply concerned” about the heightened tensions in the Middle East.

“The great human suffering that we have been witnessing there for months is increasing, and also the risk of conflagration. We call on all parties to immediately resume negotiations for a cease-fire and the release of hostages,” Scholz said.

He also called on Israeli authorities to take measures to avoid civilian casualties in Gaza, and allow delivery of more humanitarian aid into the Palestinian enclave.

“I am deeply concerned over the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, and the lack of protection for civilians and humanitarian aid workers. Here Israel must do more,” he stressed.

British Prime Minister Starmer has underlined that the two countries share common views on resolving the Middle East conflict, and they will continue working together towards a political solution.

He called for “unfettered humanitarian access into Gaza” and underlined the importance of their joint efforts towards de-escalation in the Middle East region, and achieving a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Starmer said the creation of a Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel would be “the only way” to provide long-term peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.

“And that, of course, is not an easy goal, but it is one that we are committed to pursuing together,” he added.