The US peace plan for Gaza offers a unique opportunity to end the terrible war in Gaza. It gives hope to hundreds of thousands of people suffering in Gaza under fierce fighting, appalling captivity as hostages or unimaginable humanitarian conditions.

Finally there is hope for Israelis and Palestinians that this war could soon be over.

This opportunity must not be missed. Hamas must seize it. I urgently call on all those who can influence Hamas to do so now.

I am grateful to US President Donald Trump and his Administration for his intense efforts to end the war. The fact that President Trump is willing to head and chair the Board of Peace shows how serious he is. I would like to thank the Arab states in the region and other Muslim countries that are taking on responsibility and want to facilitate peace in Gaza by providing resources and concrete support.

The German Government stands ready to support the plan with concrete measures. We have accompanied the negotiations from the start with numerous talks. We share a joint goal with our US, Arab and European partners, namely the lasting security of the Jewish state of Israel and political prospects for the Palestinians.

Next Tuesday marks the second anniversary of the horrific terror attack of 7 October. We will remember those who were murdered. The hostages still held by Hamas could already be free on this day if all those involved demonstrate the courage to take the final decisive step.

This agreement can pave the way to a broader conciliation process in the Middle East. This opportunity must be taken.

I will travel to the region next weekend to work on this goal.