Palestinians in Gaza need a perspective for a life in freedom, German chancellor says

Speaking to reporters in Berlin, Scholz called on all parties to implement the ceasefire deal in Gaza, release all hostages, and allow more humanitarian aid into the enclave.

“Now is also the time to plan the political and economic future of the Gaza Strip,” he stressed, adding that this was essential for Israel's security and countering extremism and terrorism.

“The residents of the Gaza Strip need a path to a life of freedom and dignity. Germany and the EU are prepared to help achieve this,” Scholz said, adding that Berlin and its international partners would support a reformed Palestinian Authority taking responsibility for Gaza.

A ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, reached through extended negotiations, took effect on Jan. 19. The agreement halted Israel's military operations, which had caused more than 47,300 Palestinian deaths—primarily women and children—and left more than 111,400 injured.

In November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other grave human rights violations in the Palestinian territories.