German Foreign Minister Calls for Urgent Humanitarian Aid and Ceasefire in Gaza Amid Worsening Crisis

DT: Nessma Youssef

Minister Baerbock Stresses Compliance with International Law, Highlights Dire Needs of Gaza’s Civilians

In a powerful statement addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for urgent humanitarian intervention, stressing that international law limits Israel’s right to self-defense and requires unimpeded access for humanitarian aid. Her appeal underscores the severe suffering of Gaza’s two million residents amid ongoing conflict and extensive destruction.

Record-Low Humanitarian Aid and Desperate Conditions

Baerbock highlighted the dwindling flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, observing that “at no time in the past 12 months has so little help reached the Gaza Strip as is the case at the moment.” She reported that a large number of Gaza’s residents are suffering from malnutrition and lack access to essential services. Describing the dire circumstances, she added, “Thousands of children are sitting among the rubble without parents and in unbearable pain. In no other region in the world are so many children with amputations living in such a small area.”

The severe infrastructure damage and unsafe conditions have left many families without shelter or safe zones to escape to. With large areas of Gaza now in ruins, people are increasingly crowding into the few remaining safe areas, which are themselves becoming less secure.

Legal Limitations on Self-Defense and the Necessity of Humanitarian Access

Minister Baerbock emphasized that while Israel’s right to self-defense is acknowledged, it is bound by international humanitarian law, which mandates the protection of civilians and guarantees the passage of humanitarian assistance. “Israel’s right to self-defense is limited by international humanitarian law, which includes the stipulation that humanitarian access must be guaranteed at all times and must never be used as a method of warfare,” she said. She called attention to the repeated unfulfilled promises for aid delivery, pointing out that Germany, in collaboration with the International Court of Justice, has consistently advocated for a steady flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza.

Baerbock urged the Israeli government to uphold its commitments and ensure aid delivery, “without any excuses,” despite the complexities of the situation. She emphasized that humanitarian support must not be delayed under any circumstances, as lives depend on it.

Immediate Winter Preparations and the Need for Hostage Release

As winter approaches, Baerbock outlined critical priorities to protect the lives of Gaza’s most vulnerable, including the release of hostages held by militant groups. She stressed the importance of delivering essential survival items such as food, water, medicines, hygiene products, and tents. “Before the onset of winter, the most urgent priority is for the hostages to be released at last and for the emergency supplies necessary for survival to finally reach the people in Gaza,” she stated.

She urged for all Gaza border crossings to be opened immediately to allow humanitarian aid to flow in, calling on all involved parties to fully cooperate with the United Nations and international relief organizations. Establishing safe routes for emergency supplies and medical evacuations, she said, is critical to averting further suffering.

Calls for Ceasefire and Lasting Peace Efforts

Baerbock expressed cautious optimism regarding recent diplomatic efforts to facilitate aid access, noting constructive initial signs from all parties involved. However, she reiterated that the ongoing heavy fighting must cease for humanitarian efforts to have any meaningful impact. “The heavy fighting must finally stop and serious efforts made to bring about a ceasefire. For without a ceasefire, there will be no end to the dying, and the suffering will continue,” Baerbock insisted.

She concluded by underscoring that a ceasefire is essential not only for the wellbeing of Gaza’s families but also for the families of over 100 remaining hostages. Baerbock’s appeal for urgent action reflects Germany’s stance on promoting peace, supporting international law, and mitigating suffering through humanitarian efforts.