German Chancellor Urges Increased Gaza Aid Amid Escalating Tensions
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has called for a significant increase in aid delivery to Gaza, voicing criticism over Israel’s plans for a full-scale military offensive in the southern city of Rafah. Scholz’s remarks come a day after the first maritime aid shipment reached Gaza, carrying 200 tonnes of food supplies facilitated by a U.S. charity and the United Arab Emirates.
Despite Israel defending the proposed Rafah operation as necessary to counter Hamas, Scholz described the situation in Gaza as “difficult” and stressed the need for aid to reach the territory “on a larger scale now.” He plans to raise the issue during talks with regional counterparts on his upcoming Middle East visit.
The German leader expressed grave concerns about the potential for “many terrible civilian casualties” from a full-blown assault on Rafah, which currently shelters over a million displaced Gazans from other parts of the strip. “This must be avoided at all costs,” Scholz stated firmly.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved plans for military action in Rafah, citing it as essential for fully removing Hamas from Gaza. However, the international community, including the UN and U.S., has warned that such an offensive could prove disastrous.
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the Israeli army said it intends to relocate displaced Palestinians in Gaza to “humanitarian islands” within the strip, though details remain unclear. Aid groups have sounded alarms about impending famine, with the UN previously warning Gaza was on the brink.
While Israel denies obstructing aid, the breakdown of order has severely hindered distribution efforts, prompting some nations to explore alternative sea and air routes. Prospects for a truce also emerged, with potential Hamas-Israel talks in Doha as early as Sunday, though demands remain contentious.
Amid the escalating violence and suffering, Germany’s call for intensified aid deliveries underscores the desperate need for humanitarian assistance even as military solutions are pursued. With civilian costs mounting, Scholz’s plea reflects growing international pressure to prevent further catastrophe in the besieged Palestinian territory.
