ISTANBUL

The German government emphasized on Saturday that Israel remains responsible for ensuring the delivery of comprehensive humanitarian aid to Gaza with the support of the UN and other aid organizations.

Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius said in a written statement that German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul had briefed the Federal Security Cabinet by phone following his recent visit to Israel and the occupied West Bank.

Kornelius acknowledged that “some initial, limited progress” had been made in providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza but stressed that it was “clearly insufficient to alleviate the acute emergency.”

“Israel’s obligation to provide comprehensive aid to Gaza continues, including with the support of the UN and other humanitarian organizations,” he said.

The German government also expressed concern over reports that large quantities of aid materials have been seized by Hamas and other criminal groups in Gaza.

During his visit, Wadephul met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

He also visited the town of al-Taybeh near Ramallah and held talks with representatives of humanitarian organizations operating in the region.