Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed on Friday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally informed him of Israel’s latest military operation against Iran during a morning phone call.
In a formal statement released shortly after the call, Merz reiterated Germany’s position that Israel has the right to defend itself, especially against threats related to nuclear proliferation. At the same time, he emphasized the urgent need for both Israel and Iran to exercise restraint to avoid inflaming tensions further in the volatile Middle East.
The Israeli strikes, launched early Friday, reportedly targeted key Iranian infrastructure, including nuclear research sites, ballistic missile production facilities, and high-ranking military installations. Israel said the operation was a preemptive measure aimed at disrupting Iran’s alleged pursuit of atomic weapons.
Chancellor Merz noted that **Germany is working in lockstep with its key allies—the United States, United Kingdom, and France—**to monitor the evolving situation and coordinate diplomatic responses. “We are calling on all involved parties to avoid actions that could spark a broader regional conflict,” he stated.
In response to the unfolding crisis, Merz convened a high-level security cabinet meeting, where German leadership agreed on a series of protective measures. These include enhanced security for German nationals currently residing in Israel, Iran, and across the wider region, as well as increased protection for Jewish institutions and Israeli diplomatic missions within Germany.
Merz also used the opportunity to underscore Germany’s longstanding concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stating that Tehran has repeatedly failed to meet international transparency standards regarding its uranium enrichment activities. “Iran has not fulfilled its obligations,” Merz stressed, “and continues to advance a program that poses serious risks to global and regional security.”
As tensions between Israel and Iran mount, Germany has positioned itself as both a supporter of Israel’s right to security and a voice urging measured responses to avoid escalation in an already fragile region.