German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed that Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu personally called him Friday morning to tell him about Israel’s military attack on Iran. The call was barely six hours after Israel carried out an operation against Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities.
Though Germany commended Israel’s right to self-defense, it strongly urged both countries not to take any further actions and safeguard regional stability.
Israel Strikes First, Merz Briefed Rapidly
Israel claimed to have attacked Iran early Friday, striking nuclear sites, factories making ballistic missiles, and the highest-ranking Iranian military leaders. The assault represents an escalation of tensions, which have been ongoing for years over Iran’s nuclear program.
In the face of international reactions, German Chancellor Merz issued a statement affirming his personal contact with Netanyahu. Merz stated Israel has acted in the cause of self-defence, but the danger of further broad conflict is perilously high.
Germany Calls for Restraint & Coordination
Friedrich Merz emphasized that Germany continues to be closely aligned with the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. The allies are together keeping track of the aftermath of the Israeli attacks. Merz, in his message, appealed to Israel and Iran to refrain from taking any additional actions that would fuel further flames of violence throughout the Middle East.
We urge both sides to hold back from actions that might trigger further escalation and destabilize the whole region,” Merz said.
Protection Extended to German Citizens & Jewish Institutions
The German Chancellor held a security cabinet session shortly after the Israeli attacks. The cabinet resolved to take precautionary steps to secure the welfare of German nationals in Israel, Iran, and the surrounding regions. It also resolved to increase security for Jewish and Israeli installations in Germany.
The government has committed itself to making “all necessary precautions” as it fears retaliatory strikes.
Germany’s Traditional Fears Regarding Iran’s Nuclear Activities
Merz reaffirmed that Germany has cautioned against Iran’s nuclear program for years. Iran has been consistently unable to fulfill global obligations and has not been transparent regarding its uranium enrichment activities.
Germany perceives the possibility of Iran getting nuclear weapons as a threat directly to regional and international peace. Merz accepted Israel’s stance but strongly reiterated the necessity for diplomatic pressure and restraint to avoid further destabilization.
Germany is today in a tricky balancing act—allying with its ally Israel while attempting to cool a potentially volatile situation. While Netanyahu moves boldly and the world tensions escalate, Merz has led the way in terms of urging calm, coordination, and civilian protection.