Foreign Minister Wadephul: Israel and Iran should de-escalate – ceasefire in Gaza “more urgent than ever”

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) has expressed reservations about Germany's military intervention in the war between Israel and Iran – for example, regarding support for Israel against further rocket attacks by the Islamic Republic. "I am committed to de-escalating the situation now and seeking a way out of further military confrontation," the politician said in the Saudi capital Riyadh after a meeting with his counterpart Faisal bin Farhan.

"A further escalation of the situation would have incalculable consequences. Therefore, I would like to appeal to everyone: It is, as is often said, not too late," said Wadephul. "This region needs peace and not an escalation of military conflicts." Germany is also influencing "our Israeli partners in this direction." However, it is also clear that Germany has an obligation to Israel – the security and existence of the Israeli state is part of German raison d'état, the minister emphasized.

Wadephul backs Arab Gaza reconstruction plan

French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged military support to Israel in the event of retaliatory strikes by Iran. He ruled out any involvement in Israeli offensives. The Gulf states of Saudi Arabia and Oman strongly condemned Israel's attacks. Riyadh said they constituted a clear violation of international law. The Omani government called the attacks a "dangerous and reckless escalation."

Despite the war between Israel and Iran, the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip must not be lost sight of, Wadephul demanded. He believes the Arab states' plans for reconstruction and lasting security there are worthy of support. A ceasefire is "more urgent than ever." The plan was presented by Arab countries in March. It envisions reconstruction over five years with an estimated cost of around 50 billion euros.

That evening, Wadephul planned to meet with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani in the Gulf emirate of Qatar . Qatar is considered an important mediator between Israel and the Islamist Hamas in the Gaza War.