(Posted in the US before Shabbat)
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock arrived in Israel for her ninth visit since the start of the war, as part of a regional round of meetings that also included Saudi Arabia and Jordan. This visit, her 11th in the region since the outbreak of the war, underscores Germany’s deep commitment to Israel and to promoting stability in the Middle East.
During her meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, Baerbock addressed the recent antisemitic incident at the Israeli consulate in Munich. She expressed her deep regret, stating: “This is a terrible moment for us, especially against the backdrop of the anniversary of the Munich Massacre. Antisemitism strikes at the core of our society, and we will not stop fighting it.” Her remarks reflect Germany’s ongoing battle against antisemitism and its commitment to Holocaust remembrance and the protection of the Jewish community.
Baerbock expressed sorrow over the murder of six Israeli hostages and called on Hamas to “end its brutal terrorism and finally release all the hostages.” She emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts to free the hostages, expressing regret that some of them “could still be alive if Biden’s plan for their release had been implemented.” Baerbock stressed that “nothing is more urgent than the fate of the hostages still in captivity,” adding that “all other considerations are secondary.”
The German minister also voiced concern over the situation in the West Bank, while recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorism. She stated that “the IDF’s actions in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Tubas are aimed at combating terrorism,” but warned that “they must not lead to new insecurity and violence.” Baerbock highlighted the importance of preventing further escalation in the region, while acknowledging the security challenges Israel faces.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz thanked Baerbock for the efforts of German security forces in thwarting the attempted attack in Munich. He emphasized the ongoing threat posed by Iran, stating: “The source of terrorism is in Iran, and it threatens not only Israel but also Europe and the entire world.” Katz made it clear that “Israel will not compromise on its security,” and that “no one wants a deal for the release of the hostages and a ceasefire more than Israel,” while noting that according to the U.S., “Hamas is the obstacle to the deal.”
The frequency of Baerbock’s visits to the region reflects Germany’s deep involvement in efforts to promote stability and peace in the Middle East, while maintaining close relations with Israel and other regional partners.
