The foreign minister of Germany calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas after a meeting with his counterpart in Indonesia.
Johann Wadephul and Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono say the humanitarian catastrophe resulting from the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza is unbearable and a two-state solution is the sole means of ending the conflict.
“The goal for all of us is clear: a two-state solution, which must be negotiated,” Wadephul says.
Sugiono, who like many Indonesians uses a single name, told a joint news conference with Wadephul in the capital Jakarta that they also discussed how to overcome geopolitical challenges and rising trade barriers during the productive and constructive meeting.
Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, is a longtime supporter of the Palestinians and does not recognize Israel.
“Germany, as a special friend and partner of Israel, also has a responsibility, and I believe we will have responsible discussions about this in the future,” Wadephul says.
“There is now a very acute opportunity for a conflict resolution in which many neighboring countries have contributed to this,” Wadephul says. “It would be in all of our interests if this political conflict could be resolved through a peaceful process.”
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From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
