Scholz again calls on Israel to refrain from a broad offensive on Rafah

(Patria) - German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reiterated his call on Israel to refrain from a large-scale military offensive on the city of Rafah in southern Gaza.

- We are very clear that there should not be a broad offensive on Rafah - Scholz said at a joint press conference in Stockholm with the leaders of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.

He emphasized that too many people live in Rafah.

- We have no idea how this military offensive could be carried out without too many civilian casualties, which cannot be acceptable - Scholz pointed out.

He reiterated that Germany supports Israel in its fight against Hamas, but also stressed that the Israeli army must respect international law and protect the civilian population.

- We are clearly saying that Israel has every right to retaliate against Hamas. While saying this, we are also very clear about what needs to be done.

First, the way this war against Hamas is conducted must follow international rule of law and international rules - Scholz emphasizes.

He also stated that there must be enough humanitarian aid reaching Gaza.

- My request has always been for it to be around 500 trucks a day, every day, so that there is enough support with food, medical aid and all that is needed in Gaza - Scholz added.

He called on the Israeli authorities to take the necessary steps to stop the violence of extremist Israeli settlers against Palestinians, emphasizing that settler violence in the West Bank cannot be tolerated.