German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed concern about a possible further escalation of the conflict between Israel and Lebanon – and has called for restraint.
“We understand Israel’s security interests. But this must not go so far as to destabilize an entire neighbouring state,” Merz told German public broadcaster ARD on Wednesday at the conclusion of the G7 summit in Évian, France.
When asked whether he was concerned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might have an interest in preventing the framework agreement between the United States and Iran from being finalized, Merz said: “I do not share that concern.”
The chancellor added, however: “Israel must not become a driving force behind the conflict, but must play an active role in bringing the conflict to an end now.”
Merz expressed optimism about the prospects of success for US President Donald Trump’s announcements that the Strait of Hormuz – which is vital for global oil and gas trade and thus for energy supplies – would soon be open to shipping again.
Based on what is known and what the US government is saying, the strait will be “fully reopened over the course of the next few days, without any tolls," Merz asserted.
