BERLIN

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz thanked Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on Thursday for his country’s mediation efforts in the conflict between Hamas and Israel.

The two leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East and the fate of hostages held by Hamas during their meeting in Berlin, Scholz’s spokesman said in a statement.

“Chancellor Scholz reiterated that Germany stands unwaveringly with Israel and condemns the terrorist attack in the strongest possible terms. Israel has the right under international law to defend itself and its citizens,” according to Steffen Hebestreit.

He said one of the main topics was diplomatic efforts to release hostages taken by Hamas, including German nationals.

“Chancellor Scholz stressed that Hamas had full responsibility for the welfare of the hostages. He demanded that the hostages be released as soon as possible,” he said.

Scholz praised Qatar's humanitarian efforts in mediating and de-escalating the current situation in the Middle East.

The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact, he added.

More than 1,400 Palestinians and 1,300 Israelis have been killed since the escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict Saturday.

In response to Hamas’ surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, Israel formally declared war and launched hundreds of airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.