Statement on the current developments in Gaza and Israel

“We are deeply distressed by the current developments and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The dramatic situation of the people there requires our attention and decisive action. We welcome the clear words of Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who has called for a fundamental improvement in the situation for the people in Gaza and direct access for international aid organisations to distribute humanitarian aid.

At the same time, we are deeply concerned about the long-term consequences of the war for the region, especially with regard to education and science. The people in the Palestinian territories need prospects for the future and better educational opportunities for the younger generation. Once the war has come to an end, which is urgently needed, we in Germany must actively support the reconstruction of Gaza, especially schools, universities and research infrastructure.

As science organisations, we also support the growing calls from the Israeli scientific community – such as the open letter from the five university presidents and the appeal by the President of the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities, David Harel – to end hunger and war in Gaza and to free the hostages held by Hamas through negotiations.¹ Harel also points to the long-term consequences for the population, the stability of the region and the threat of damage to Israeli science.²

We stand in unwavering solidarity with the state, the people and science in Israel. We therefore continue to clearly oppose calls for boycotts of Israeli scientific and academic organisations, universities and scientists, and we are committed to scientific exchange with both Israeli and Palestinian universities and scientific institutions. Despite all conflicts, research cooperation can point the way to a more peaceful future for both peoples. Science is a voice of reason that should be strengthened.”

¹President of the Academy Issues Warning: Addressing the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and Securing the Release of Hostages - A National Moral Imperative
² The ALLEA Board Supports Call for Immediate Action to Protect Civilian Lives in Gaza - ALLEA

Every year, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation enables more than 2,000 researchers from all over the world to spend time conducting research in Germany. The Foundation maintains an interdisciplinary network of well over 30,000 Humboldtians in more than 140 countries around the world – including 63 Nobel Prize winners.