The ceasefire negotiated by the Egyptian government was short-lived, however. Israel was willing to accept a ceasefire, but it was rejected by Hamas. It would appear that there will be a brief ceasefire. The Chancellor pointed out that "good use must be made of this time".

Last week in a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Chancellor condemned the rocket attacks on Israel in the strongest possible terms.

Frank-Water Steinmeier in the Middle East

On Tuesday evening Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier returned from his two-day trip to Amman, Jerusalem and Ramallah. He too regretted the fact that the negotiated ceasefire had not held for long.

At the end of his trip, Frank-Walter Steinmeier reaffirmed, "Germany and Israel are linked by a very special relationship. We stand firmly by our German-Israeli friendship, especially at this difficult time."

End attacks from Gaza

The situation between Israel and Palestine can only be defused if the attacks from Gaza are ended immediately, said government spokesperson Steffen Seibert last Friday. The German government underscores the right of Israel to protect itself against these attacks to ensure the safety of its citizens, he continued.

There must, however, be a sense of proportion. It is vitally important to prevent any further escalation with civilian deaths and injuries on both sides.