Germany says situation in Gaza 'unbearable,' calls for ceasefire

The new German Goreign Minister Johann Wadephul departed for Israel on Saturday for a Middle East trip in which "critical discussions" are expected, he said when leaving Berlin.

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“In both of our democracies, critical discussions about the policies of one’s own government and friendly nations are part of this,” Wadephul said on Saturday.

Wadephul called for “serious discussions for a ceasefire” in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation “is now unbearable.”

Ahead of a visit to Israel, Wadephul said it was “imperative to start” talks “to free all hostages and to ensure that supplies reach the population of Gaza," according to comments reported by his ministry.

While reaffirming Germany's unwavering support for Israel, the official said he would “inquire about the strategic objective of the fighting that has intensified since March.”

In Israel, Wadephul is expected to meet his counterpart Gideon Saar and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. In Ramallah, the minister will meet with the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, Mohammed Mustafa.

Israel's military resumed its offensive on the Gaza Strip on March 18, ending a two-month truce that saw a surge in aid into the war-ravaged territory and the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.