German Chancellor Olaf Scholz again voiced his support on Tuesday for a hostage deal between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, amid reports of progress toward an agreement.
The monstrous crimes committed by Hamas on October 7, 2023, is still very much on everyone’s mind, Scholz said in a statement, referring to unprecedented attacks against Israel that prompted the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.
About 250 people were kidnapped from Israel during the October 7 attacks and taken back to the Gaza as hostages. Many have been released, and others killed, but some are believed to still be alive in captivity in Gaza.
“We understand how painful any agreement with the terrorist organization Hamas is for Israel. Nevertheless, the lives of the hostages must now have top priority,” Scholz said.
“I also say this because there are many German nationals among the hostages,” Scholz said. “The agreement offers the chance of a ceasefire to finally alleviate the suffering in Gaza.”
After many months of agonizing negotiations, an agreement now appears to be within reach, Scholz said. The agreement offers the chance of a ceasefire to finally alleviate the suffering in the Gaza Strip.
