Germany is planning to host an international summit with Egypt to discuss the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, announced Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The primary focus of the conference, according to Merz, will be on addressing critical needs such as the restoration of water and energy infrastructure, as well as medical services.
A spokesperson from the German development ministry revealed that Berlin is prepared to offer 850 temporary housing units for Gaza, with 50 of them located in Ramallah and ready to be swiftly transferred to Gaza for immediate shelter provision. It was highlighted that a significant percentage, between 90 to 92 percent, of Gaza’s structures have suffered severe damage or destruction.
In parallel developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office disclosed that the government has granted approval for a potential hostage release agreement with Hamas. Merz emphasized the importance of expeditiously executing the deal to ensure the safe return of hostages, including German citizens, to their families.
Merz underscored the urgency of delivering humanitarian assistance to the people in Gaza. Germany committed to offering an additional 29 million euros ($33.6 million) in humanitarian aid, with a specific focus on supporting the medical and psychological well-being of the released hostages.
Netanyahu confirmed that there are still 48 hostages in Gaza, with 20 alive and 28 deceased. Notably, one of the deceased individuals is believed to be an Israeli soldier who lost his life in 2014, and whose remains are being held by Hamas. Among those still alive, four are identified as German nationals.