G7 to discuss diplomatic solution to Iran-Israel conflict, says Germany’s Merz
Chancellor Merz says European leaders will propose joint statement emphasizing Israel's ‘right to self-defense� and affirming that Iran must ‘under no circumstances� acquire nuclear weapons
Friedrich Merz
BERLIN
Leaders of the G7 countries will discuss possible steps toward a diplomatic solution to the conflict between Israel and Iran, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Monday.
Speaking to reporters in Kananaskis, Canada, before the G7 summit's official start, Merz said he had met with leaders from Italy, France, and the UK last night to discuss recent developments.
"As the European side, we will propose drafting a joint statement on this issue in which we would emphasize once again that Iran must not, under any circumstances, acquire nuclear weapons," Merz said.
"We will emphasize the state of Israel's right to self-defense, and we will also discuss possible further steps to reach a diplomatic solution," he added.
Asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin's potential role as mediator in the Israel-Iran conflict, Merz dismissed the suggestion, pointing to Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.
"I personally don't believe the Russian president is in a position to mediate this conflict. It would be good if Russia were to end its war in Ukraine," Merz said.
"I consistently emphasize that ending the war in Ukraine lies entirely in the hands of Russian leadership. If Putin stops this war, he will have taken the right and necessary step on the international stage."
