BERLIN

Germany on Tuesday reaffirmed its opposition to Israel's expanded military operations in Gaza and potential plans to expel Palestinians from their homeland.

Speaking to reporters in Brussels, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said a majority of European states are in agreement that the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip requires urgent improvement.

“During my recent visit to Israel and my visit to the Palestinian territories, I expressed that I consider the situation in the Gaza Strip to be intolerable — and it has not got better, it has got worse,” he told reporters.

Wadephul said Germany remains committed to a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict and supports a two-state solution.

“There must be no expulsion, direct or indirect, of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. I have also explained this very clearly to our Israeli partners and friends during my visit, and this is the basis of our future policy,” he added.