Sun May 11 13:23:16 UTC 2025: ## German Foreign Minister Calls for Political Solution to Gaza Conflict
**Jerusalem, May 12, 2025** – German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has urged a political solution to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, stating that a military approach is ineffective. During a visit to Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust memorial, Mr. Wadephul affirmed Germany’s commitment to Israel’s security, while also emphasizing the need for constructive criticism of Israeli actions. He stressed that such criticism must not be conflated with antisemitism.
The conflict, which began with Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, has resulted in a devastating loss of life. Israel reports 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken to Gaza, while Hamas-run health authorities cite over 52,000 Palestinian deaths, largely civilian. Mr. Wadephul reiterated the German government’s top priority: the safe return of the hostages. He expressed uncertainty about the efficacy of continued military action in Gaza, highlighting Gaza’s status as Palestinian territory.
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