German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed on Friday that he was informed in advance of Israel’s military strike on Iran during a phone call with Israeli leadership earlier in the day.
In an official statement, Merz acknowledged Israel’s right to self-defence but urged both nations to avoid actions that could further destabilise the already tense region.
Israel carried out targeted strikes on Iranian sites on Friday, reportedly hitting nuclear facilities, ballistic missile production sites, and key military figures. Israeli officials said the operation was aimed at preventing Iran from advancing its nuclear weapons programme.
“We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region,” Merz said, adding that Germany is working closely with international partners including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France in response to the crisis.
Following the development, Merz convened a security cabinet meeting to assess Germany’s preparedness and response. The cabinet resolved to boost security around Jewish and Israeli institutions across Germany and to implement safety measures for German nationals in Israel, Iran, and the broader Middle East.
The Chancellor also reiterated Germany’s long-standing concerns over Iran’s nuclear activities, stating that the country has continued to fall short of its obligations to provide full transparency on its uranium enrichment efforts.
“Germany has consistently raised alarm over the pace and scope of Iran’s nuclear programme,” Merz said, reaffirming the country’s stance on the need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further regional instability.
Nzubechukwu Eze
