German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed on Friday that he was informed of Israel’s military strike on Iran during a phone call with Israeli leadership earlier that morning.
In an official statement, Merz acknowledged Israel’s right to self-defence while urging both nations to avoid further escalation in an already volatile region.
Israel launched targeted strikes on Iranian sites on Friday, claiming to hit nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military commanders. The operation, according to Israeli officials, was aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
“We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region,” Merz said, noting that Germany is closely coordinating with key international partners — including the United States, Britain, and France — in response to the unfolding crisis.
The German Chancellor also convened a security cabinet meeting to assess the situation. The cabinet agreed to increase protection of Jewish and Israeli institutions within Germany and to take necessary precautions for German citizens currently in Israel, Iran, and the wider Middle East region.
Merz reiterated long-standing concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, noting that Iran continues to fail to fulfil its obligations to disclose its nuclear enrichment activities. He added that Germany has consistently expressed alarm over the country’s advanced nuclear programme.
Melissa Enoch
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