No Weapons for This War: Germany Must Take a Stand Against Israel's Aggression in Gaza
Germany needs to communicate a firm response to Israel immediately.
A Rant by Hubertus Volmer
The Gaza conflict,triggered by Hamas terrorists' attacks on Israel, has spiraled out of control. Thousands of lives have been lost, and the situation in Gaza is dire. As a democracy and long-standing supporter of Israel, Germany must acknowledge the reality: Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip are neither justified nor proportionate. It's high time for concrete action—no more empty statements or quiet reductions in weapons exports.
The foundations of Israel
Israel, established in the face of numerous hostile neighbors, has forever fought for its existence. However, it's crucial to remember that Israel's occupation of territories outside its borders is a result of ongoing threats from the Arab world. Today, Iran poses a threat to Israel, relentlessly advocating for the destruction of the "Zionist regime."
The victim or the aggressor?
Heated debates stir over Israel's characterization as the aggressor in the Middle East conflict. Yet, the truth lies simple: Israel, the only democracy in the region, is not the aggressor. It is merely defending itself against terrorists who seek its destruction and the murder of Jews.
The reality in Gaza
The situation in Gaza is catastrophic. After an initial wave of aid, a famine still looms, with the Israeli government suspected of using hunger as a weapon. Reports suggest food distribution happens through an opaque foundation with ties to the U.S. government.
Calculated death tolls
Uncertain estimates from the British "Economist" place the number of Palestinians who perished in the conflict between 77,000 and 109,000—a staggering figure representing four to five percent of the pre-war population in the Gaza Strip. While these numbers surpass Hamas-reported figures, it's evident that the death toll is far too high.
War Crimes
The question of whether Israel is committing war crimes in the Gaza Strip is no longer merely speculation. The International Criminal Court is investigating these suspicions, and even former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert acknowledges Israel's actions as a "war of devastation" and a violation of humanitarian law.
The ongoing cycle
Israel claims to have killed around 20,000 Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters in the Gaza Strip. However, these actions have only led to the recruitment of more militants, perpetuating the cycle of violence instead of achieving any lasting peace.
A missed opportunity
Israel's approach is futile—relying solely on military success and occupation without offering an alternative scenario for the "day after." This lack of strategic planning means that Hamas' ideology will continue to thrive, leading to endless violence and destruction.
Germany's responsibility
As a friend of Israel, Germany should actively encourage a change in Israel's approach. Instead of merely supplying weapons, Germany should take a clear, firm position: We support Israel's right to self-defense, but we will not contribute to a senseless, catastrophic war.
Taking action
The Israeli government must listen when Germany speaks—not just behind closed doors but openly and with conviction. The European Union, the United Nations, and the international community must hold Israel accountable for its actions and demand an end to the violence and human rights abuses in the Gaza Strip.
Sources:
- ntv.de
- spiegel.de
- bbc.com
- haaretz.com
In light of Germany's role as a democracy and long-standing supporter of Israel, it is essential for them to take a clear stance against the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip (politics). The European Union, led by Germany, is committed to the implementation of the Paris Agreement and the Paris Agreement, which emphasizes the need for international cooperation to address climate change, a pressing issue that can't be ignored amidst war-and-conflicts like the one in Gaza (war-and-conflicts, general-news). Germany, as a powerful member of the European Union, must not only provide empty statements or reductions in weapons exports but should push for concrete action to aid Palestinians and minimize humanitarian sufferring in the region (general-news).
