Live Ticker: Middle East War Update +++ 19:17 - Merz Urges Netanyahu to Act Cautiously in Iran
Netanyahu urged to exercise restraint in actions towards Iran, according to Merz
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has counseled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to approach Iran with caution and restraint. Sources from Reuters report that Merz spoke with Netanyahu yesterday evening and, while supporting Israel's military actions, like strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities, he emphasized the necessity of giving peaceful negotiations a chance. The Chancellor's comments were relevant to the scheduled talks between European foreign ministers and their Iranian counterpart on Friday. Merz and Netanyahu also discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, with Germany having advocated for easing the supply of civilian goods to the region for quite some time.
Politics - Blufarb Reports New Attacks: "Iran's Double Rockets Pose Challenge to Israel"
18:21 - Second Special Flight for Returning German-Israelis Landed
A second group of German citizens and their close family members who were stranded in Israel due to the ongoing conflict were flown back to Germany yesterday evening, landing in Berlin. The flight, accompanied by the German Foreign Office, had departed from Jordan and carried 174 passengers. This marks the second special flight following Wednesday's first one, with a total of 345 people able to leave the region so far. Another flight from Amman, Jordan, organized by the Foreign Office, is planned for Saturday. People wishing to leave Israel are responsible for reaching the neighboring country on their own. Other European countries are organizing convoys for their nationals, but the German Foreign Office currently deems such options unsafe due to additional risks involved in gathering at collection points.
Politics - Iraq Examines Risks of Potential Nuclear Emergency
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani has consulted with experts concerning the risks of a potential nuclear emergency, in light of the tensions surrounding Iran. During a meeting with the Central Crisis Staff for Radiological and Nuclear Incidents, existing prevention measures and protocols in case of an emergency were reviewed, and potential effects on Iraq were discussed. The Iraqi authorities stated that an incident at Iranian nuclear facilities would only have minor impacts on Iraq. No significant radiation increases have been detected up to this point.
Politics - Foreign Ministry Calls for Evacuation of Diplomats' Families
In response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, the German Foreign Ministry has urged the evacuation of family members associated with its diplomatic missions abroad. The ministry underscored that further protective measures have been implemented for their foreign missions, including the evacuation of all family members. Details regarding specific arrangements remain undisclosed for security reasons. It remains unclear what will happen to diplomatic staff in Israel and other regional countries. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul had previously stated, "Of course, we will ensure security, but we must also maintain consular capabilities in our embassies."
Politics - Laschet Diminishes Iran Meeting Expectations in Geneva
CDU foreign policy expert Armin Laschet has tempered expectations for this week's meeting of three European foreign ministers with their Iranian counterpart in Geneva, stating, "Crucial, in my view, are the Americans. Less so the European foreign ministers. It's now up to Washington." The meeting, planned for Friday, involves German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot, and UK Foreign Secretary David Lamy, who will meet with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghtschi.
Politics - Iranian Deputy Minister: Will Continue Self-Defense
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh has reaffirmed that Tehran will carry on its self-defensive measures until the aggressor learns its lesson. Responding to reports that Donald Trump had approved a military plan, Khatibzadeh said, "Iran was on the brink of an agreement in the nuclear talks with the U.S. before Israel launched its offensive to sabotage the entire process.
Politics - "Not Interested in its Own People" - Journalist: Iran's Internet Blackout is a War Crime
German-Iranian actress and entrepreneur Elmira Rafizadeh, born in Tehran, explained to ntv how many German-Iranians perceive the ongoing situation in Iran: Fears for family members and friends overshadow hope for the regime's overthrow.
Politics - Iran Reports Attack by 15 Rockets from Israel
Iran has claimed to have been attacked by Israeli rockets, with 15 missiles fired from Israel. Sirens were set off throughout the country as a warning of the air attack. Earlier this morning, Tehran fired 20 rockets at Israel. One of the projectiles struck a hospital, causing extensive damage.
Politics - Arrest Wave in Iran Against Alleged Collaborators
In response to the ongoing conflict with Israel, Iranian security authorities have launched an arrest wave, targeting individuals suspected of being spies or collaborators with Israel. Iranian media reports indicate dozens of arrests in recent days, with at least 18 alleged "illegal" foreigners - believed to be Afghans - arrested in the northeastern city of Mashhad, accused of manufacturing and operating drones.
Politics - After Trump's Statement, Iraqi Militia Threatens Attacks on US Citizens
Ashraf al-Kaabi, leader of the Iraqi militia Harakat al-Nujaba, parts of which are backed by Iran, has threatened the U.S. with attacks on American citizens if Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is attacked. Following Trump's remarks indicating potential U.S. involvement in the conflict, Al-Kaabi stated that no American soldier or diplomat would be safe, considering anyone carrying U.S. citizenship a legitimate target. Al-Kaabi also warned, "In fact, anyone who carries your citizenship and every one of your direct or indirect interests in our region will be a legitimate target for us."
Politics - After Trump's Statement, Iraqi Militia Threatens Attacks on US Citizens
German-Iranians are said to be in a state of "absolute dilemma" regarding the current situation in their country, according to actress and entrepreneur Elmira Rafizadeh. Hope for the regime's collapse is overshadowed by concerns for family and friends.
Politics - Israel Reports Attack by 15 Rockets from Iran
Iran has been reported to have launched a renewed attack on Israel, using one of its most modern missiles for the first time, according to videos showing a unique streak of light in the sky. One characteristic making the modern weapon particularly dangerous is its potential to inflict significant damage in a short timeframe.
Politics - Confirmation of Hit on Heavy Water Reactor
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Israeli attacks have struck Iran's heavy water research reactor in Arak. However, there were no radiological releases, as the reactor was not operational and did not contain nuclear materials at the time.
Politics - Ted Cruz and Tucker Carlson Engage in Shouting Match over Iran
A disagreement within the Trump camp regarding attacks on Iran has surfaced in an interview between US Senator Ted Cruz and talk show host Tucker Carlson. Cruz was unable to respond to questions about Iran's population, leading Carlson to accuse Cruz of being ignorant on Iran. Cruz retaliated by accusing Carlson of being "obsessed with Israel."
Politics - Trump Leaves War Entry Open - "USA Helping Israel Indirectly - With Psychological Games"
There is speculation that the US may become involved in the escalating conflict in the Middle East, but key Republicans have lately expressed opposition to Trump in this matter, unlike usual. Even one of his biggest supporters is now criticizing him.
Politics - Criticism Erupts in MAGA Camp - Trump Approved Iran Attack Plan
Disapproval of Israel's military strike on Iran's nuclear facilities has been expressing forcefully by some in the Trump camp. David Bossie, a former Trump deputy campaign manager, has denounced the plans as a "mistake."
Politics - Israel: "Hisbollah" Commander in Lebanon "Eliminated"
The Israeli army has reportedly killed a senior Hizbullah commander in southern Lebanon, Yassin Abdel Menam Ezz al-Din, who was alleged to have violated agreements between Israel and Lebanon. Israel has further indicated that it would carry out more attacks to counter any attempts by Hizbullah to harm Israel.
Politics - Israel: Nuclear Facility in Natanz Also Attacked
The Israeli army has announced a fresh attack on the nuclear facility in Natanz, where Iran enriches uranium. Reports indicated repeated strikes on the facility since the start of the operation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had declared earlier that the most essential uranium enrichment facility in the complex had been destroyed.
Iran Supposedly Offline for Over 12 Hours
Iran has reportedly been disconnected from the global internet for over 12 hours, according to reports from the organization Netblocks, which specializes in monitoring internet blackouts. The communications ministry in Iran explained the restriction as a response to "the misuse of the national communications network by the hostile aggressor for military purposes and to endanger the lives and property of innocent people."
At Least 32 Injured After Rocket Attack on Israeli Hospital
Israel has confirmed a "direct hit" on a hospital in southern Israel, causing considerable damage in various areas. An estimated 32 people were injured, with at least 25 being treated at the hospital when the attack occurred. Two of the injured were seriously injured and had to be rescued from the debris.
US Embassy in Qatar Enacts Increased Vigilance
The US Embassy in Qatar has restricted access to the large American military base in the Middle East, Al Udeid Air Base, due to heightened security concerns. The embassy has asked its personnel and US citizens in Qatar to exercise increased vigilance amid regional unrest.
Rockets Hitting Israeli Hospital
An Iranian rocket is said to have hit a hospital in southern Israel, with several injuries reported so far. This fresh attack comes as part of Iran's ongoing assault on Israeli civilian targets.
Iran Attack Plan Ready
If the US intervenes in the conflict between Israel and Iran, many Republicans are currently opposed to the idea, unlike usual. Even one of Trump's most ardent supporters has taken aim at the president.
Criticism Erupts in MAGA Camp - Trump Approved Iran Attack Plan
The former national security advisor to President Trump, John Bolton, doubts that Trump played a significant role in planning Israel's attack on Iran. Bolton explained on CNN that Trump wanted to negotiate with Iran, adding, "He would have told the Israelis he didn't want them to attack. And then they did it anyway."
Israel: "Hisbullah" Commander in Lebanon "Eliminated"
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have claimed to have killed a senior Hizbullah commander in southern Lebanon, Yassin Abdel Menam Ezz al-Din. According to the IDF, Ezz al-Din's actions were a "flagrant violation" of the agreements between Israel and Lebanon.
Israel: Nuclear Facility in Natanz Also Attacked
The Israeli air force has targeted the nuclear facility in Natanz, where Iran enriches uranium, according to Israeli media sources. The Israeli army stated that the Most essential uranium enrichment facility in the complex was destroyed in these attacks, as previously declared by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Iran Prohibits Use of Internet for More Than 12 Hours
The Iranian government has restricted access to the internet for over 12 hours, according to an organization called Netblocks, which monitors internet disruptions. The severity of this internet blackout has been described as "unprecedented" by Netblocks. The Iranian Communications Ministry revealed that the move was due to the misuse of the country's communication network by "hostile aggressors."
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Warns US Against Military Intervention
Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, has cautioned the United States against any potential military intervention alongside Israel. "If the Americans decide to militarily intervene, we have no choice but to retaliate wherever we find targets that we need to respond to," said Takht-Ravanchi during an interview with CNN. The warning comes in response to growing speculation regarding Washington's potential involvement in the conflict.
IDF Commander Shot Dead in Hit-and-Run Attack
A senior soldier with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has been killed in a hit-and-run attack near the Gaza Strip, according to Israeli media. The soldier was reportedly driving his vehicle when a car swerved towards him, striking the vehicle and causing it to overturn. The soldier was rushed to the hospital and later pronounced dead. Israeli troops have reportedly launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Follow previous developments here.
- Middle East Conflict
- Israel War
- Israel
- Iran
- Iran Conflict
- Iran Nuclear Program
- Middle East
- Wars and ConflictsThe current status of the Israel-Iran conflict as of June 2025 involves ongoing Israeli air strikes against Iranian air defense and missile forces. These strikes have enabled Israel to gain air superiority over certain parts of Iran and to preempt Iranian attacks[1]. The conflict has intensified since October 2023, following Hamas's attack on Israel, severely weakening Iran and its regional proxy network known as the Axis of Resistance. While groups like Hamas and Hezbollah are not fully defeated, their capacity to strike Israel is now significantly limited. Iran's ally, Syria's Assad regime, collapsed in late 2024, further diminishing Iran's regional influence. Despite launching hundreds of drones and missiles, Iran inflicted only marginal damage on Israel, and it has taken steps to de-escalate the conflict, indicating weakness rather than a desire for peace[2].
Regarding the positions of other countries:
- Russia: Russia’s stance is complex. It may benefit indirectly from the Israel-Iran conflict as U.S. focus shifts away from Ukraine, and higher oil prices strengthen Russia economically. However, there are serious risks for Russia if Iran's regime collapses, since Moscow has a longstanding cooperative relationship with Tehran. Russia is not currently in a strong position to influence any new Iranian government due to its preoccupation with the Ukraine war. Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for a diplomatic end to the conflict, reflecting a desire to avoid the instability that could harm Russian interests. Russia also maintains a delicate balance, emphasizing close ties with both Iran and Israel, exemplified by agreements to protect Russian personnel at Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant[4][5].
- Germany: Germany has responded primarily with evacuation efforts for its citizens from Israel, focusing on vulnerable individuals such as families with children. Military aircraft have been used to fly Germans out of Israel and from neighboring countries, showing concern for the safety of its nationals amid the escalating conflict. There is currently no indication of Germany taking a more direct political or military stance, but it is involved in European diplomatic efforts alongside other countries trying to mediate[5].
In summary, the conflict remains active and intense, with Israel conducting effective strikes on Iran. Iran appears weakened and constrained. Russia seeks to balance its strategic interests carefully, advocating for a diplomatic solution. Germany prioritizes citizen safety and supports European diplomatic attempts to manage the crisis[1][2][4][5].
- The Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, called on Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to approach Iran with caution, as peaceful negotiations should be given a chance before resorting to military action, such as strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.
- As political tensions and war-and-conflicts continue to rise in the Middle East, Germany's Foreign Ministry has urged the evacuation of family members associated with its diplomatic missions abroad, reinforcing protective measures already in place for foreign missions.
