Top German politicians have reacted with relief after the release of further hostages from the Gaza Strip by Palestinian militants on Thursday.
“Arbel Yehud and Gadi Moses are free, both German-Israeli citizens. We are relieved and rejoice with all the hostages who have returned today,” German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said in a post on X.
He demanded that all remaining hostages be released as well.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wrote on X: “I have repeatedly prayed, cried and hoped with the families of Arbel and Gadi on the ground. Their strength moves me deeply.”
There were chaotic and threatening scenes during the release of Yehoud, Moses and several Thai hostages.
“Tormented by Hamas until the end,” Baerbock said.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier also welcomed the release of those abducted from Israel almost 16 months ago and sent a message to their families.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock speaks during the Alliance 90/The Greens’s election campaign event in the Schinkelhalle. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa
Germany’s President Frank-Walter Steinmeier speaks during a memorial service to commemorate the victims of National Socialism at the German Bundestag. Kay Nietfeld/dpa
