Français
Español
English
Portuguese
As with several other European allies who were pressuring Israel to end its Gaza campaign, he has offered full-throated support of Israel’s right to self-defense since the Iran conflict began.
By Philissa Cramer, JTA
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed gratitude about Israel’s attacks on Iran’s nuclear program.
“This is the dirty work Israel is doing for all of us,” Merz, who took office earlier this year, told the German broadcaster ZDF on Tuesday from Canada, where he is participating in the G7 summit of world leaders.
There, he and the other participants signed a resolution in favor of de-escalation in the current conflict, which erupted early Friday when Israel began a bombing campaign that is ongoing.
Merz had made headlines with his sharp criticism of Israel’s operations in Gaza earlier this month, a rarity for both a German leader and a center-right one.
But as with several other European allies who were pressuring Israel to end its Gaza campaign, he has offered full-throated support of Israel’s right to self-defense since the Iran conflict began.
Now, he is going further, saying that he is glad Israel has taken on an adversary that posed a risk for Germany and other countries.
He said he believed Iran’s regime had been significantly and permanently weakened.
“I can only say I have the greatest respect for the fact that the Israeli army and the Israeli government had the courage to do this,” Merz said.
Merz also said he believed the United States had not made a final decision about whether to get involved militarily.
President Donald Trump left the G7 summit early to discuss the topic at the White House.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!
