Germany’s Maas visits rocket-hit building, emphasizes Israel’s right to defend itself

Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter

Germany's Foreign Minister Heiko Maas visits a building in Petah Tikva hit by a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip, May 20, 2021 (Miri Shimonovitch)
Germany's Foreign Minister Heiko Maas visits a building in Petah Tikva hit by a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip, May 20, 2021 (Miri Shimonovitch)

Shortly after landing in Israel, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas receives a security briefing in Petah Tikva from Gen. Ori Gordin, head of the IDF Home Front Command.

Maas also visits a building in the city hit by a rocket fired from Gaza.

The German envoy says his visit was meant to show solidarity with Israel, and emphasizes Israel’s right to defend itself.

He also says Germany supports efforts to reach a ceasefire.

The Czech and Slovakian foreign ministers are expected to land at midday.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas (C) receives a security briefing in Petah Tikva from Gen. Ori Gordin (L), head of the IDF Home Front Command, along with Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi (R). (Foreign Ministry)

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.