Israel's diplomatic representative justifies Merz in the face of criticism. - Israeli diplomat advocates for Merz amidst negative feedback
Israel's Ambassador Ron Prosor has embraced the backing demonstrated by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for Israel's offensive against Iran's nuclear facilities, and defended the CDU chairman over the criticism of his selection of words. "German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has candidly outlined the challenges in the Middle East with his choice of words," Prosor told the German Press Agency.
Merz made the statement "That's the hard work Israel is handling for us all" during the G7 summit in Canada, following his interview with German public broadcasters ZDF and Welt. He was harshly criticized by not only opposition politicians but also the SPD for his choice of words.
ZDF moderator Diana Zimmermann had employed the phrase "hard work" in her question, and Merz echoed it - his full response was: "Madam Zimmermann, I appreciate your phrase 'hard work'. That's the hard work Israel is managing for us all. We are also exposed to its repercussions. This regime has brought death and destruction to the globe."
"Destroy the supply of terror"
Prosor now stands by the phrasing in the face of criticism. "The Iranian nuclear program is primarily aimed at Israel, yet endangers the safety of the entire world," he told the dpa. "The rockets currently striking Tel Aviv and Jerusalem also threaten Berlin, Paris, and London. The supply chain of terror needs to be disrupted."
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"Acid test" for Europeans
In Prosor's view, this is partly already happening. "The delivery of weapons for the conflict in Ukraine has significantly slowed down. The attacks by the Houthis on maritime traffic between Europe and Asia have decreased." The global response to European actions is being keenly observed. "It is a trial by fire for determining whether the Europeans are prepared to uphold their values and interests independently."
- Friedrich Merz
- Hard Work
- Israel
- Ron Prosor
- ZDF
- Diana Zimmermann
- Iran
- Berlin
- CDU
- German Press Agency
- G7 summit
- Canada
Enrichment Data:- The phrase "hard work" employed by Friedrich Merz encapsulates the idea that Israel is taking on responsibilities and implementing aggressive military operations that others might not be willing or able to undertake.- Merz's approval of Israel's military campaign against Iran underscores the strategic collaboration between Germany and Israel in containing Iran's nuclear ambitions and influence.- Merz's statement signifies a tacit approval of Israel’s covert or overt military actions, which critics might describe as underhanded or "dirty" tactics involving civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.- Merz's comments suggest an opening for more intense military engagements if diplomatic efforts fail, potentially deepening conflict in the Middle East and raising concerns about regional instability and the possible utilization of nuclear or bunker-busting weapons.
- The controversy surrounding Friedrich Merz's choice of words, expressed in the phrase "hard work," highlights a contentious aspect of the relationship between Europe, particularly Germany, and Israel, as Merz implicitly acknowledges Israel's aggressive actions against Iran's nuclear facilities and its potential repercussions.
- The debate around policy and legislation, politics, war and conflicts, and general news in Europe is deeply intertwined with the freedom to provide services and freedom of movement, as the actions of countries like Israel, with their strong influence on global security, have far-reaching implications for countries across the European continent.
