Full Breakdown
Germany and Israel Coordinate Stance Against Iran Amid Ongoing Conflict
3/12/2026, 10:11:23 PM
Joint Press Conference Highlights Coordinated Efforts
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul held a joint press conference in Jerusalem on March 12, 2023. This meeting marked Wadephul's first visit to Israel since the commencement of the air campaign against Iran, known as Operation “Roaring Lion.” The ministers presented a united front against the Iranian regime, emphasizing that the threat posed by Iran extends beyond Israel's borders. Sa’ar highlighted the achievements of the ongoing military operation, asserting that the current Iranian leadership exacerbates regional instability. He stated, “It is difficult to see [the removal of the threat] happening with the current regime,” referring to Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Context of the Conflict
The backdrop of this diplomatic visit is the escalating military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iran, which have intensified since late February 2023. The campaign has included airstrikes and missile attacks, leading to significant casualties, including a recent Iranian missile strike that resulted in fatalities in Beit Shemesh. Sa’ar reiterated that Israel does not seek an “endless war” but aims to eliminate existential threats from Iran, coordinating closely with Washington on the operation's timeline.
Iranian Response and Criticism
In response to the German support for Israel, Iranian officials have condemned the stance taken by Wadephul and the German government. Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, criticized Germany for aligning with what he termed the "wrong side of history," accusing it of overlooking injustices perpetrated by the United States and Israel. Baghaei's remarks reflect a broader sentiment within Iran that views external support for Israel as complicity in regional violence.
Broader Implications and International Reactions
The conflict has drawn mixed reactions from the international community, particularly within Europe. While some nations, including France, Greece, and Italy, have expressed solidarity with Israel, there are calls for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing violence. Wadephul acknowledged the need for a diplomatic solution but noted that Iran has shown no willingness to engage in negotiations regarding its nuclear and missile programs or its support for regional militias.
Official Statements & Responses
During the press conference, Wadephul emphasized that Iran's actions pose a threat not only to Israel but to Europe and the broader international community. He stated, “Iran opposes not only Israel, but the entire region and also Europe.” Sa’ar echoed this sentiment, urging European nations to sever diplomatic ties with Iran, which he described as a "terror regime."
What's Next
As the conflict continues, Wadephul's diplomatic tour is expected to extend to Saudi Arabia, where he will seek insights into potential resolutions to the ongoing hostilities. The situation remains fluid, with the international community closely monitoring developments and weighing the implications of the ongoing military actions in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We want to remove the existential threat in the long term.” — Gideon Sa’ar, Israeli Foreign Minister
- “This is how one ends up on the wrong side of history: by overlooking injustice and atrocities.” — Esmaeil Baghaei, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
- “The regime in Tehran finances and directs terrorist groups such as Hezbollah, Houthis, and Hamas.” — Johann Wadephul, German Foreign Minister
- “Nobody can have any interest in chaos, civil war or the collapse of Iran,” — Johann Wadephul, German Foreign Minister
