Gaza lies in ruins; the scale of the destruction is shocking. We all agree that Gaza must be rebuilt as swiftly as possible. Homes, hospitals, schools, and the clearing of munitions and unexploded ordnance – a vast international effort will be needed for all this. We Europeans stand ready to do our part together with the US and our partners in the region.

The civilian population in Gaza, the many families who are now returning to the rubble of their homes, need our help for a future on their land – in security, dignity and peaceful coexistence with Israel. They also need genuine political prospects. On this point, we agree that the Hamas terrorists must no longer be allowed to play any role in Gaza in the future. This is a question of both Israel’s security and the security of the region.

At the same time, it is clear that Gaza – just like the West Bank and East Jerusalem – belongs to the Palestinians. It forms the basis for a future state of Palestine.

A displacement of the Palestinian civilian population from Gaza would not only be unacceptable and in breach of international law. It would also lead to new suffering and new hatred. And so the G7, the European Union and the United Nations have repeatedly made clear from the beginning that Gaza’s civilian population must not be displaced and Gaza must not be permanently occupied or resettled. A solution must not be put in place without consulting the Palestinians. A negotiated two-state solution remains the only solution which will enable both Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace, security and dignity. This is also the clear stance taken by the Arab states in the region.

Today I am also thinking of the hostages who are still in Hamas’ power. All efforts must now focus on implementing the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. Otherwise, the lives of the hostages are at stake – with German nationals still among them. The chance to see them freed must not be allowed to pass by.