Merz: Iran must immediately stop attacks on civilian targets in Israel

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has called on Iran to stop its attacks on civilian targets in Israel. "Tehran must immediately stop the bombing of civilian targets in Israel," Merz said on Sunday in Berlin before his departure for the G7 summit in Canada. At the same time, he pointed to precautions taken by the German authorities: "We are also preparing ourselves in Germany in case Iran should target Israeli or Jewish targets in Germany."

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Merz reiterated Germany's position that Iran should not be allowed to develop or possess nuclear weapons. "It would be a threat to Israel, the Middle East, and the international community as a whole." Since the Iranian nuclear program poses an "existential threat to the State of Israel," the country has the right to "defend its existence and the security of its citizens," Merz emphasized.

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An escalation of the conflict must be prevented, the Chancellor said. "Other states in the region must not become theaters of war." Therefore, a solution must now be sought through diplomatic channels. Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) is in close contact with his colleagues in the region to this end. Merz himself had previously spoken by telephone with the Sultan of Oman.

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Israel has also asked Germany to provide fire extinguishing equipment, Merz explained. "We will initiate this immediately."

According to Merz, Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine will also be a topic at the G7 summit in Canada. The participation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO chief Mark Rutte sends "a clear signal of support for Ukraine." He wants to use the summit "to advance the ceasefire negotiations initiated by US President (Donald) Trump," Merz said.

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However, the Chancellor explained that additional pressure is needed to bring Moscow to the negotiating table. "That's why we want to impose new sanctions at the European Council at the end of the month." At the meeting in Canada, he also wants to persuade his partners, and especially the United States, to impose stronger sanctions against Russia.

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According to the Chancellor, Germany also plans to discuss increasing defense spending and migration in Canada. "I would like to see clear statements from the G7 on migration," Merz said. Economic issues also need to be clarified. Merz called for "a clear perspective for an agreement on the tariff dispute."

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The G7 summit will take place on Monday and Tuesday in Kananaskis in the Canadian Rockies. The heads of state and government of the United States, Japan, Germany, France, Great Britain, Italy, and Canada will attend. The meeting will be the first multilateral summit Trump will attend since his return to the White House.