Excited About Hostage Release, Steinmeier Heads to Israel
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier showed relief at the release of hostages by terrorist organization Hamas. He praised the mediators and insisted that ceasefire is the key to releasing all hostages.
The terror group freed 24 hostages on Friday, including 13 Israelis and 11 foreigners seized in Gaza Strip late October. Among these individuals are four dual nationals who hold German and Israeli citizenship. In exchange, Israel released 39 Palestinian prisoners. The exchange continues today.
Steinmeier is set to fly to Israel this Sunday for a two-day visit. President Izchak Herzog extended an invitation. The two leaders are close friends. Steinmeier’s wife Elke Büdenbender will accompany him, and then he heads to Oman and Qatar. Steinmeier stated his visit aims to reassure Israel of Germany's continued solidarity, not only as a terror victim but also as a defender.
Emotional Moments for Hostages and their Families
- The release of German-Israeli dual nationals Arbel Yehud and Gadi Moses brought joy to Steinmeier, who condemned their suffering by Hamas.
- Yehud's father, Yechti Yehud, met with German President Steinmeier and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock to petition for her release.
- With her world drastically changed, Chancellor Olaf Scholz welcomed Yehud's release, urging immediate freedom for all hostages and returning the deceased's remains.
Persisting Conflict and Tentative Ceasefire
- This agreement is merely the first step in resolving the ongoing conflict. With tensions and delays, the truce remains precarious, as negotiations continue for more hostage releases.
- Efforts to create an international supervision plan for Gaza's reconstruction face opposition from Israel, challenging any Hamas or Palestinian Authority involvement.
Steinmeier's Mission
As Steinmeier embarks on his Israel visit, he calls for sustained solidarity with the country. His mission is to comfort as a terror victim and support as a defender, with wife Elke Büdenbender in tow, as they proceed to Oman and Qatar.
