The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation have issued a joint statement by their presidents, Joybrato Mukherjee and Robert Schlögl, in which they have expressed their deep shock at the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They welcomed Germany’s call for urgent improvements in the situation of civilians and for international aid organisations to gain direct access to distribute assistance. 

The two leaders warned of the long-term consequences of the war for education and science in the region. They highlighted the urgent need for reconstruction of schools, universities, and research institutions once the conflict ends, to provide young people with opportunities for the future. The presidents also echoed appeals from the Israeli scientific community – including an open letter by five university presidents and a statement by Prof. David Harel, President of the Israeli Academy of Sciences – as well as the support expressed in a statement by the European Federation of Academies of Sciences and Humanities (ALLEA). 

Looking ahead, DAAD and the Humboldt Foundation reaffirmed their solidarity with the people and science in Israel while maintaining their commitment to scientific cooperation with both Israeli and Palestinian partners. They explicitly opposed calls for academic boycotts, stressing that science must remain a voice of reason and dialogue in times of conflict. “Despite all conflicts, scientific cooperation can point the way to a more peaceful future for both peoples”, the presidents concluded.