The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the Israeli Government’s plans. This step threatens to further hamper efforts to advance the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians.

In the last few days, Foreign Minister Steinmeier has spoken to both the Israeli Foreign Minister and the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority and has told both sides that, during this delicate stage of the Middle East peace process, everything possible must be done to avoid all hope of a peaceful two‑state solution being lost.

Especially now, both sides are called upon to build trust and to eschew unilateral, provocative steps. The Federal Government is thus calling on the Israeli Government to refrain from publishing the tenders. A negotiated two‑state solution remains the only option which offers the prospect of long‑term peace.