BERLIN: Germany says it offered more than €11 million ($15.3 million) for humanitarian efforts in Gaza this month.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Jens Ploetner says the funds went to aid organizations.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel advocates a cease-fire but says it must ensure Israel’s security. Her office says she spoke Sunday with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, and Monday with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Later Monday she will speak with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.

Meanwhile Sweden says it will give 10 million kronor ($1.3 million) to a U.N.-administered fund for Gaza. It already had donated 7 million kronor.

The Swedish International Development Agency says the funds are being used for hospitals, medicines and food.

International Herald Tribune