Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the Israeli attack on Iran in a phone call early this morning, Reuters reported, citing a statement from the chancellor, BTA reports.
The statement stated that Israel has the right to defend itself, while emphasizing that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons. However, Merz called on both sides to refrain from actions that could lead to further escalation.
Israel carried out strikes on Iranian targets on Monday, saying it had attacked nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders. The operation, according to the Israeli side, aims to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The German Chancellor said that Berlin is working closely with its partners, especially the United States, Britain and France. “We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilize the entire region“, Merz said.
He added that he had called an emergency government meeting, at which it was decided to take all necessary measures to protect German citizens in Israel, Iran and the region. In addition, security around Jewish and Israeli sites in Germany will be strengthened.
Merz recalled that Germany has been expressing serious concerns about Iran's nuclear program for years and stressed that Tehran continues to fail to fulfill its obligations for transparency regarding its nuclear enrichment activities.