Germany’s deputy foreign minister, Florian Hahn, has issued a strong call for an urgent ceasefire and improvements to the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, Anadolu reports.
Speaking ahead of a diplomatic meeting in Madrid, Hahn described the current situation as “unbearable” and emphasized Germany’s commitment to pursuing a political solution to end the conflict.
“The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains unbearable,” Hahn said, highlighting the need for an immediate end to hostilities, the release of hostages, and efforts to ensure that Hamas no longer poses a threat.
He reaffirmed Germany’s support for a two-state solution, stressing that it remains a central goal of German foreign policy. “We need progress toward a two-state solution to finally resolve the Middle East conflict,” he said.
At the Madrid meeting, Hahn outlined Germany’s approach: supporting the creation of functioning Palestinian state institutions, opposing settlement expansion and settler violence, and strengthening the Palestinian Authority based in Ramallah. He also underscored Germany’s “unwavering commitment to Israel’s security.”
The Madrid meeting is part of broader preparations for a high-level United Nations conference on the two-state solution, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia in New York this June. The newly established “Madrid Group,” formed in 2024, aims to revive diplomatic momentum for peace in the region amid ongoing violence and worsening conditions in Gaza.
Following the Madrid talks, Hahn is scheduled to attend an international conference on combating antisemitism in Israel from May 26 to 28.