Berlin: His Majesty King Abdullah II on Tuesday called on the international community to take immediate and unified action to stop the alarming spread of starvation and suffering among civilians in Gaza.
According to Jordan News Agency, during a joint press conference with Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz, following talks in Berlin, His Majesty emphasized the urgent need to end the war on Gaza. The King described the humanitarian catastrophe in the region as having reached unspeakable levels, with images of starving children sparking global outrage. He stressed that allowing this situation to persist is a “stain on our shared humanity” and urged that relief efforts should remain non-political, condemning the targeting of civilians seeking aid.
The King called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, insisting on full respect for international humanitarian law and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance throughout the Strip. He highlighted Jordan’s leadership in regional relief efforts, coordinating aid convoys and providing urgent medical support to Gaza, while also praising Germany’s support for these humanitarian initiatives.
Discussing Jordanian-German relations, His Majesty remarked on the deep partnership between the two nations, founded on shared values and mutual respect. He expressed Jordan’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation with Germany and the European Union across various sectors, including education and development. The King lauded Germany’s strong support for Jordan’s efforts to stabilize the region and provide necessary assistance.
Addressing regional developments, King Abdullah II underscored the need to halt escalations in the West Bank and violations at holy sites in Jerusalem, emphasizing the critical nature of the situation. He advocated for joint action to end the conflict in Gaza and create a political pathway for a comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution, appreciating Germany’s support for this approach.
Regarding Syria, His Majesty reiterated Jordan’s support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity as essential for long-term stability. He emphasized the importance of continued international support to prevent a recurrence of the crisis and enable Syrians to rebuild their state.
In response to a question about Gaza, the King described the situation as an indescribable tragedy and noted Jordan’s pivotal role in supporting Gaza and the West Bank. He highlighted the challenges of delivering aid, with Jordan currently able to send only 60 trucks per week, despite the need for 150 trucks daily. King Abdullah II criticized attacks by Israeli settlers on aid convoys and called for international support to facilitate the delivery of aid.
The King also discussed Jordan’s significant role in humanitarian airdrops, noting that while not the most effective method, they contribute to the overall effort and apply pressure on Israel to allow aid deliveries. He emphasized the necessity of international collaboration to secure a political horizon and end the conflict in Gaza.
Chancellor Merz praised the special partnership between Jordan and Germany, highlighting His Majesty’s role in regional affairs. He announced that aircraft equipped for humanitarian missions were en route to Jordan, acknowledging the King’s initiative in facilitating airdrop operations. Chancellor Merz reiterated Germany’s call for a ceasefire in Gaza and its opposition to any annexation of the West Bank.
The talks were attended by Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh and Jordan’s Ambassador to Germany Fayez Khouri.