Tensions should be reduced: Wadephul encourages dialogue between Israel and Iran
P.S. Let's keep this chat casual and relaxed, just like how we'd chat over a cuppa.
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has sounded a note of caution regarding the feud between Israel and Iran, suggesting that Germany should aim to cool things down and find a way out of any further military altercations. This could possibly mean backing Israel against further rocket attacks from the Islamic Republic. "I reckon we should now cool things down and figure out a way to avoid further military conflicts," said the CDU political heavyweight in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, following a sit-down with his counterpart Faisal bin Farhan.
"Another round of heating things up could lead to unpredictable outcomes. So, I'm calling on all parties: it ain't too late, as they say," said Wadephul. "This region could really use some peace, not more military squabbles." Germany is working "towards that goal along with our Israeli buddies." However, it's also clear that Germany stands by Israel - the security and existence of the Israeli state is part of German foreign policy, the minister underscored.**
French Prez Emmanuel Macron has pledged military support for Israel if Iran responds with retaliation. He's made it clear that he won't be getting involved in Israeli military actions. Saudi Arabia and Oman have criticized Israel's offensive actions. From Riyadh, it was announced that these attacks violated international law. The Omani government labeled the attacks as "dangerous and silly escalation."
Despite the war between Israel and Iran, the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip deserves attention, Wadephul insists. He supports plans by Arab nations for the strip's reconstruction and long-term security. A truce is "more urgent than ever." The plan was tabled by Arab countries in March. It outlines rebuilding the strip over five years with costs estimated to be around €50 billion. In the evening, Wadephul was set to meet Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani in the Gulf emirate. Qatar is considered a key middleman between Israel and the Islamic Hamas in the Gaza conflict.
Source: ntv.de, dpa
In the current Israel-Iran conflict, there's a powerful push for reducing the heat through diplomatic channels, with both direct and indirect efforts underway. The latest updates show that diplomatic activity has intensified following a period of heightened hostilities, with main nations and mediators stepping in to prevent further escalation and seek a resolution[1].
Key Developments
- US Diplomatic Efforts: US President Donald Trump is optimistic about ongoing diplomatic initiatives, expressing confidence that "we'll have PEACE, real soon, between Israel and Iran." Trump's statements suggest active American engagement to broker a deal and encourage both sides to negotiate[1].
- Iranian Diplomatic Moves: Iran has asked Qatar and Oman to act as middlemen, wanting to communicate with the US about its readiness to negotiate a truce. Additionally, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi has said that Iran remains open to negotiating a nuclear deal, possibly in response to calls for renewed talks on nuclear activities[1].
- Regional Mediation: Saudi Arabia is quietly working away at facilitating de-escalation between Iran and Israel, demonstrating the importance of regional players in crisis management[1].
- Recent Escalation: The conflict has involved military exchanges, such as Israel's interception of the Madleen vessel and the arrest of its crew, which has been deemed a violation of international law[2].
Germany’s Role
At the moment, there's no evidence of Germany playing a direct or public role in the current de-escalation efforts between Israel and Iran. The focus is mainly on the US and regional actors like Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia[1].
Regional Responses
- Qatar and Oman: Both nations are being asked by Iran to act as middlemen to the US, showing Iran's intention to seek a truce and restart negotiations[1].
- Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia is going behind the scenes to support de-escalation, highlighting its influence and interest in maintaining regional stability[1].
- Israeli Response: Israeli government sources confirm that Iran has expressed a willingness to negotiate, and there's recognition of ongoing diplomatic talks, even as Israel continues its military operations[1].
Current diplomatic efforts are mostly being led by the US and regional powers, with little evidence of direct German involvement as of now. The situation is dynamic, with negotiations and military actions determining the future path towards potential de-escalation[1][2].
- The Commission could be asked to expand its scope and submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, especially in the context of military conflicts such as war-and-conflicts between Israel and Iran, given that Germany is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts toward de-escalation and is committed to workers' safety and health.
- It would be interesting to see if the current development in the Israel-Iran conflict, which is dominated by heavy political tensions and general-news topics, would lead to a greater emphasis on addressing the humanitarian needs of the affected population, such as those in the Gaza Strip, as called for by Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.
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