Germany Will Not Participate in Stability Force in Gaza "in the Foreseeable Future"

SadaNews - German Foreign Minister Johan Wadephol announced that Germany will not participate in the foreseeable future in an international stabilization force in Gaza as part of the peace plan for the sector.

The minister, a member of the Christian Democratic Union, stated in remarks to the German news agency in Berlin, following nearly two and a half months since the ceasefire began in Gaza, that such a force is not merely a mediation force "but must provide security in a very tangible way when necessary." He added, "Many cannot imagine German soldiers and female soldiers doing that in this particular region."

Wadephol continued, "We will not participate in stabilization forces in the foreseeable future," clarifying in response to a question about whether this also includes training and organization: "At the moment, no one expects us to participate in the international stabilization mission," while confirming that Germany is prepared to contribute constructively to the structures mentioned in the United Nations Security Council resolution, such as a peace council, noting that Berlin has not yet received an official invitation to participate in this council.

The second phase of the 20-point peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump calls for the disarmament of Hamas and the deployment of an international stabilization force, yet the movement firmly rejects the idea of relinquishing its weapons. Wadephol urged a swift initiation of the second phase of the peace plan, saying that after conducting preliminary consultations with countries likely to send troops, there is now a need for a political framework that includes a security structure provided by the stabilization forces and the Palestinian security forces. He added, "It is important to start all of this very soon," warning that: "The current division in Gaza between one part controlled by Israeli forces and another where Hamas's control is increasing must not become a permanent situation."