German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday expressed support for Israel's right to self-defense after Israeli forces struck Iranian nuclear and military targets overnight. In a statement following a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Merz said Israel was responding to a "serious threat" posed by Iran's advancing nuclear program.
He noted that the recent IAEA resolution confirmed Tehran's continued lack of transparency. Merz warned Iran's plans to speed up uranium enrichment further violate international agreements and endanger regional stability.
"We reaffirm that Israel has the right to defend its existence and the security of its citizens," he said. Merz urged both sides to avoid steps that could escalate the conflict. He said Germany will also boost protection for its citizens in the region and increase security around Jewish and Israeli institutions in his country.
