Following the release of disturbing videos depicting emaciated Israeli hostages held in Gaza, German political figures have expressed outrage and leveled accusations against Hamas. The videos have intensified debate surrounding Germany’s approach to the ongoing conflict.
Roderich Kiesewetter, spokesperson for the CDU/CSU faction on the Bundestag’s Foreign Affairs Committee, criticized the German government’s Middle East policy, alleging it is susceptible to Hamas’s propaganda and reverses the roles of perpetrator and victim. He argued for unwavering support for Israel and a concerted effort to dismantle narratives sympathetic to Hamas, both within Germany and internationally. Kiesewetter stated Hamas aims to destroy Israel and holds innocent Israeli hostages, a goal facilitated by German aid that allegedly falls directly into Hamas’ control. He proposed a German initiative to disarm Hamas, involving Arab states opposed to the organization. A viable future for Gaza, he contended, requires the complete dismantling of Hamas.
The SPD parliamentary group reiterated its demand for the immediate release of all Israeli hostages, condemning Hamas’s actions and its exploitation of civilians. They emphasized the importance of Palestinian societal resistance against Hamas and reiterated their commitment to a negotiated two-state solution, suggesting recognition of a Palestinian state could be a step towards this goal, contingent on serving that purpose.
Omid Nouripour, the Green Party’s foreign policy spokesperson, underscored Hamas’s responsibility for the dire situation in Gaza, emphasizing the need not to lose sight of the hostages amidst broader criticism of the Netanyahu government. He reiterated that Hamas bears primary responsibility for the current crisis.
Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann of the FDP’s Europe Policy team views the release of the videos as an attempt by Hamas to obstruct a ceasefire. She urged increased pressure from Arab states on Hamas, specifically highlighting countries that have recently normalized relations with Israel, to halt the conflict and release the hostages. Strack-Zimmermann believes that only such pressure can pave the way for a lasting peace and the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The differing viewpoints reflect a complex and charged atmosphere surrounding the conflict and Germany’s role in addressing it.