Overview

• Johann Wadephul urged Israeli leaders in Jerusalem to implement an immediate Gaza ceasefire beyond temporary pauses to bring hostages closer to release and relieve civilian suffering
• He warned against active annexation of occupied Palestinian territory and cautioned that continued obstruction of humanitarian access could lead to Israel’s diplomatic isolation
• Wadephul will travel to Ramallah to meet Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to address settler violence and advance efforts for a two-state solution
• Canada has announced its intention to recognize the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September, following France’s lead and putting additional pressure on EU partners
• More than 200 German artists and media figures are pressing Chancellor Merz to halt arms deliveries and back sanctions, while aid organisations demand a humanitarian crisis summit in Berlin