German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reiterates support for Israel on Oct 7 attack anniversary

Berlin: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated his country's support for Israel and its battle against Hamas militants on Monday, the first anniversary of a lightning attack on the Middle Eastern country in which some 1,200 people were killed.

"We feel with you the horror, the pain, the uncertainty and the sadness. We stand by your side," he said. "The Hamas terrorists must be fought."

Scholz also drew attention to the suffering of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, saying that "people need hope and perspectives if they are to renounce terror."

"That's why the federal government is calling for a ceasefire, for the hostages to be freed, and for a political process - even if that seems more distant today than ever," he said.