Merz was briefed by Netanyahu ahead of Israeli strikes on Iran

The latest news on Israel and Iran. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on Friday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had personally informed him about Israel's military action against Iran before it began.

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While reaffirming Israel's right to self-defence and voicing concern over Iran's nuclear ambitions, Merz urged both nations to avoid further escalation: "We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilize the entire region."