By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday called on Israel and Iran to avoid any further escalation following Israel’s strikes on Iranian territory.
Merz warned that continued conflict between the two countries could destabilise the entire region.
Speaking after being briefed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Merz said he had convened a meeting of Germany’s security cabinet to assess the situation.
“Both sides must refrain from actions that could destabilise the entire region,” he said.
The Israeli military reportedly launched strikes on about 100 targets in Iran, including facilities linked to its nuclear programme and military command centres.
Israel stated that the raids were a direct response to Iran’s deployment of around 100 drones, which were intercepted before entering Israeli airspace.
Merz reaffirmed Germany’s support for Israel’s right to self-defence. “Germany supports Israel’s right to defend its existence and the security of its citizens,” he said, while also underlining Germany’s longstanding concerns over Iran’s nuclear activities.
“Germany has for years expressed concern about Iran’s advanced nuclear weapons programme. We are ready to use every diplomatic tool at our disposal to influence both parties.
“The ultimate goal must remain preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons,” he added.
Iran has repeatedly denied allegations by Western countries that it is seeking to develop nuclear weapons.
Tensions between Iran and the West intensified on Thursday after the International Atomic Energy Agency adopted a resolution drafted by Germany and the United States, condemning Iran’s non-compliance with its nuclear obligations.
Meanwhile, Merz disclosed that security would be tightened around Jewish and Israeli institutions in Germany in light of the latest developments.
The country has seen a rise in anti-Semitic incidents since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
The United States and Iran are expected to continue nuclear negotiations, with a sixth round of talks scheduled for Sunday in Oman.
