Israeli President commends Merz for carrying out "unsavory tasks"
The situation in the Middle East has heated up once again, with Israeli officials lauding German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for his honest assessment of the region. Merz, during a conversation at the G7 summit in Canada, said, "That's the dirty work Israel is doing for us all." Although the CDU chairman's comments were met with criticism from the usual political suspects, many Israelis appreciate Merz's straightforward manner. "Merz speaks the truth. We're defending Europe, we're defending the United States," Israeli President Jitzchak Herzog told Bild.
Earlier Beyond the Borders:
21:31 Netanyahu Clarifies: No Intent to Kill ChameneiIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that the nation's war with Iran is not intended to target Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Chamenei. "We have no target regarding Chamenei, nor a target for regime change," Herzog told Bild. However, he left open the possibility that such an outcome could be a consequence of Israel's military actions against Iran and its proxies.
21:11 Israel Can Reach All Iranian Nuclear SitesIn an interview with Israeli TV channel Kan, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that Israel has the capability to reach all of Iran's nuclear facilities. A dispute has arisen over how the U.S. will respond to the ongoing conflict, with some observers believing Israel would need U.S. support to disable the nuclear complex at Fordo, the only operational nuclear facility in Iran.
20:55 Iran Underestimates Capabilities in DiplomacyIn recent years, Iran's nuclear program has not been halted by diplomacy, but it seems German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wants to discuss matters with her Iranian counterpart. According to security expert Frank Umbach, in an interview with ntv, "a fundamental dilemma arises."
Politics Abound
"Fundamental Dilemma" Umbach: Iran Uses Negotiations to Gain TimeRecent reports indicate Iran has fired rockets at Israel, with air defenses activated around Tehran. A journalist from the French international broadcaster France 24 confirmed the attack wave. Further, Iran appears to be utilizing talks with European foreign ministers as a means to buy time.
20:31 Netanyahu: Regime Change in Iran, but Not a War GoalIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not declared regime change in Iran as an immediate war goal against its arch-enemy. However, he has stated that regime change in Iran could be a result of the war, not its primary goal. Speculations persist about Israel potentially trying to bring about regime change through targeted attacks on symbols of the Iranian government.
20:15 Netanyahu: Ahead of ScheduleIsrael claims to have hit about half of all Iranian rocket launch sites, according to Prime Minister Netanyahu. He reportedly said, "I believe we've already hit half of the launch sites they have." The PM avoided specifying the exact stage of the war.
If the U.S. Intervenes, When?According to reports, US President Donald Trump may decide within the next two weeks whether the U.S. will intervene in the war with Iran alongside Israel, against the backdrop of potential negotiations.
Politics, Like Always
Fischer: B-2 Bombers Already on Site "If Trump Takes the Step, the U.S. Will Be a War Target"Signs point to a plan for U.S. intervention in the conflict with Iran, which could be activated within days. The US President wants to give Iran some room to maneuver but has "set the bar extremely high," according to US correspondent Gordian Fritz.
Politics If U.S. Intervenes, When? Fritz: Iran Neighbors Prepare for Potential RadiationIran launched a missile attack on Israel, with the focus on determining whether the U.S. will join the conflict. If the U.S. does become involved, Tehran's neighbors could face the threat of radiation.
19:34 Political Tensions Escalate: Germany Faces Pressure Over Aide to IsraelChancellor Friedrich Merz urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to proceed cautiously and control the conflict with Iran. Netanyahu and Merz also discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, with Berlin previously advocating for better civilian supply in the region.
18:55 Iranian Deputy Minister: Will Continue Self-DefenseIran's Deputy Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh reaffirmed that Iran would continue its defense in the wake of Israel's attacks on its forces and infrastructure.
18:38 Israeli Ministry: Hit by Iran's Dual RocketsIn the ongoing bombardment, Israeli authorities assert that Iran is employing a type of rocket that poses challenges to Israeli forces. These rockets, with their dual capabilities, are particularly dangerous, according to sources.
18:21 Second Special Flight for German-Israel Returnees LandsThe Foreign Office has flown out a second group of Germans and close family members stranded in Israel with a special flight from Jordan. This move follows reports that Iran launched more rockets at Israel, causing significant damage to a hospital in Beersheba and injuring dozens.
Politics War Efforts Continue: Arab Islamic States Condemn IsraelAs the conflict rages on, Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani is meeting with officials from the Central Crisis Staff for Radiological and Nuclear Incidents to discuss Iran's nuclear program and Iraq's preparedness for potential incidents. Al-Sudani was informed that a potential incident at Iranian nuclear facilities would have only minor effects on Iraq. No increase in radiation has been detected thus far.
Politics Germany Calls on Diplomats' Families to LeaveThe Foreign Office has advised the families of staff at German diplomatic missions to leave due to security concerns in the Middle East. So far, it has not been disclosed how this move will impact German diplomatic personnel in Israel and other regions. However, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul previously stated that the government would ensure the safety and security of its diplomats.
Politics Conflict in the Middle East: German-Iranians "in a Dilemma"German-Iranians express mixed feelings about the ongoing war in their homeland. While they hope for regime change, they fear for their family and friends' safety.
Politics Israel Reports New Attacks in TehranIran's air defense systems are once again activated as Israel's air force targets the Iranian capital and major metropolis of Tehran. The extent of the damage and the targets are currently unknown.
16:55 Israeli Minister: "This is a War Crime"Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has labeled the Iranian attack on a hospital as a war crime. The Israeli military vows to continue its operations until the mission is completed.
16:33 Threat to Iran's Supreme Leader Triggers Militia Warning to U.S.An Iraqi militant leader has issued threats against U.S. citizens, warning of retaliation if Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is attacked. "If you harm the guardian of the nation, Imam Khamenei, even a single hair, you, your allies, and your dirty agents will be the target of our hunt and our fire throughout the entire Islamic region," the leader said, threatening any American soldier or diplomat in the region.
Politics The U.S. Could be Drawn into War: Russian Advisor Believes Plan is Already in PlaceMany believe that the current events in the Middle East are following a pre-existing plan, according to Russian advisor Yuri Ushakov. He has suggested that, should the U.S. intervene in the conflict, the nation would become a target.
15:59 Death Penalty Threat as Iran Reports Arrest Wave against Suspected CollaboratorsIran's security authorities, suspecting spies and collaborators with Israel, are carrying out an arrest wave. Reports indicate the arrest of at least 18 individuals in the northeast, near the border with Afghanistan.
15:19 Timeline of U.S. Military Intervention UnclearReports of a U.S. military intervention in the Middle East continue to swirl, but the timeline remains unclear. Some military experts believe the conflict is following a pre-existing plan, approved in the U.S.
14:18 Netanyahu Walks Back Claim of Strike on Iranian Nuclear Facility in BushehrIsrael has clarified that it did not, in fact, attack the only active Iranian nuclear reactor in Bushehr, as previously stated. The Ministry of Defense has stated that the attacks were instead carried out on Iranian nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Arak.
Politics Merz's Words Spark Criticism as Netanyahu's Approval Rating DropsCriticism of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's choice of words in support of Israel's attacks on Iran has intensified, with some suggesting his remarks are "scandalous," "hypocritical," and a "choice of words." As a result, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approval rating has dropped.
13:38 US Envoy Warns Hezbollah Against Involvement in WarThe U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy for Syria, Thomas Barrack, has explicitly warned Hezbollah in Lebanon against entering the conflict. He stressed that any involvement by the terrorist organization would be fatal.
12:39 Iran's Spiritual Leader "Cannot Be Allowed to Exist"Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that Iran's spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei "cannot be allowed to continue to exist." Katz made these comments in the city of Holon, where Iran allegedly targeted civilian areas overnight. Katz further emphasized that Khamenei has a personal stake in the destruction of Israel and has given direct orders to attack hospitals.
12:23 Unusual Characteristic Makes New Iranian Rocket DangerousA newly employed Iranian rocket was used for the first time in a renewed attack on Israel. Reports suggest that the unique characteristic of this modern weapon, which could make it particularly deadly, has been revealed.
11:56 IAEA Confirms Attack on Heavy Water ReactorThe International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Israeli attacks destroyed the Iranian heavy water research reactor in Arak. However, there was no radiological release, as the reactor has not been operational and contains no nuclear material, according to the UN agency.
11:29 Trump Dodges Questions about U.S. Military InvolvementReports indicate that U.S. President Donald Trump has not made a final decision regarding the possibility of U.S. military intervention in the Middle East. When asked about the matter, Trump replied, "Nobody knows what I will do." Meanwhile, ongoing regional conflicts have come to the fore.
Politics Trump's Ambiguity Sparks Controversy: Will U.S. Come to Israel's Aid?Debate rages on about the possibility of U.S. intervention in the Middle East. Uncertainty surrounds whether the U.S. will provide Israel with indirect support, such as through psychological manipulation, or whether it will intervene militarily.
10:50 Israeli Hospital Hit, Bomb Shelters FillIn what's being called a war crime, Israel has reported strikes on a hospital in southern Israel. Reports suggest that dozens of people were injured in the attack. In response, Israeli bomb shelters throughout the country are filling up.
Politics Insecure U.S. Support, Regional Hostilities EscalateAs the situation in the Middle East deteriorates, the U.S. Embassy in Qatar reinforces its military presence at the Al Udeid Air Base in the desert near Doha. The embassy has advised its personnel and U.S. citizens in Qatar to exercise vigilance amidst the ongoing regional hostilities.
09:28 Diplomatic Dilemma: US Approval for Israel's Operations Remains UnclearUnderstanding whether the U.S. has given its approval for Israel's military operations against Iran remains uncertain. While reports suggest that Israel was informed about potential U.S. support, Washington has been reluctant to provide a clear answer.
08:52 Israel Hits Key Iran Nuclear SitesThe latest wave of Israeli attacks has targeted key Iranian nuclear sites, including the enrichment facility in Natanz. Reports suggest that the most important uranium enrichment facility in the nuclear program has been destroyed.
08:33 Iran Cut Off from Global CommunicationCommunication between Iran and the global world has been largely disrupted, as the Iranian government imposed an internet shutdown. The stride is reportedly due to the government's claims of misuse of the national communications network by the hostile aggressor for military purposes and to endanger the lives and property of innocent people.
08:12 Explosions Reported in Tel Aviv and JerusalemAir raid sirens have sounded in various parts of Israel, causing concern among residents, as televised reports of explosions in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are revealed.
07:51 U.S. Embassy Evacuating Personnel in DjiboutiIn light of the escalating regional hostilities in the Middle East, the U.S. Embassy in Djibouti is relocating its personnel from the large American military base there.
07:29 Iran Strikes Hospital in Southern IsraelInitial reports indicate that a hospital in southern Israel has been struck in a major Iranian rocket attack, leaving at least 32 people injured.
Politics Trump Insists on Total Victory over IranAs the conflict between Israel and Iran continues, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi has warned the U.S. against military intervention on Israel's side, stating that Iran would retaliate given direct U.S. involvement.
06:15 Merz: Israeli "Dirty Work" Benefits EveryoneIn a controversial statement, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed support for Israel's attacks on Iran, stating, "That's the dirty work Israel is doing for us all." However, the opposition and SPD critics have condemned Merz for his choice of phrase.
Politics Iran Summons German Ambassador Over Merz's StatementIn response to Merz's support of Israel's military actions, Iran has summoned the German ambassador to address the situation. This move follows similar condemnations by Iran and warnings of repercussions.
05:57 Trump's Approval for Israel's Attacks UnclearReports indicate that U.S. President Donald Trump may have authorized attack plans against Iran but has yet to issue orders to execute them. According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump made this decision on Tuesday evening.
04:45 Israel Launches Reported Wave of Attacks on TehranIn another wave ofattacks, Israel targets more than 20 sites in Iran's capital, including centrifuge production facilities, nuclear weapons development projects, and missile factories. The Israeli Air Force has reported these attacks as part of a new offensive against Iran's nuclear program and ballistic missiles.
03:00 U.S. Maintains Diplomatic Approach Despite EscalationDespite the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, the U.S. is continuing to approach tensions diplomatically. This approach seemingly aims to diffuse the crisis and find a sustainable solution for the region.
02:30 U.S., Israel Maintain Pressure on Iran Despite ThreatsAlthough Iran has threatened to retaliate against U.S. involvement in Israel's military operations, both the U.S. and Israel persist in applying pressure on Iran to eliminate its nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. The ambitions behind Israel's military actions center around ensuring the safety of its people and the region.
Politics Merz: Israel's Actions Necessary, Iran Must Honour Its ObligationsGerman Chancellor Friedrich Merz has asserted that Israel's aggressive approach is vital in order to protect international security and that Iran must adhere to its international obligations and restrictions concerning its nuclear program. This statement follows reports of escalating conflict in the Middle East over Iran's nuclear capabilities.
02:00 Iran Threatens to Condemn U.S. if It IntervenesIranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi has warned that if the U.S. intervenes militarily on Israel's side, it will face Iran's retaliation. The U.S. must negotiate with Iran to resolve conflicts peacefully, according to Takht-Ravanchi.
01:15 Israel's Military Campaign Eyed with ConcernInternational concern over Israel's military offensive against Iran has grown, as the scope and intensity of the attacks continue. Many worry that further escalation could lead to a state of open warfare between nations, with devastating consequences.
00:45 Netanyahu: Israel Willing to Talk Peace, But Only with PalestiniansIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that Israel remains open to negotiating peace, but only with the Palestinians. This stance follows ongoing warfare against Iran and the Palestinian territories.
00:00 Netanyahu Expects Full Victory in Eliminating Nuclear Threat from IranIn a televised address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed confidence that Israel will emerge victorious in its campaign to eliminate the nuclear threat from Iran. This statement follows numerous Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, missile factories, and other strategic sites.
Today's Key Points:
- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi warns the U.S. against military intervention on Israel's side, stating that Iran will retaliate if the U.S. directly intervenes.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims that Israel has destroyed the most important uranium enrichment facility in Iran's nuclear program.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) is appealing for urgent funding to address the growing needs of Palestinian communities amid escalating violence in the region.
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Israeli airstrikes hit the Iranian heavy water research reactor in Arak, causing no radiological releases.
- Chemicals and food supplies are running low in war-torn Yemen, with fears of a mass famine if the situation does not improve soon.
The escalation in the Middle East has stirred discussions about political cooperation to ensure peace and security, with the German Chancellor's candid remarks about Israel's role in the region generating conversation. On the other hand, the ongoing military conflict between Israel and Iran raises concerns about the potential for more violence, accentuating the need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and maintain peace and security.
