Berlin, June 18, 2025 — Amid soaring tensions between Iran and Israel, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has urged Tehran to return to the negotiating table, stating, “It is never too late to negotiate.”
Speaking from Berlin, Wadephul emphasized that Germany, along with its European partners France and the United Kingdom, remains open to resuming diplomatic efforts—particularly on nuclear issues—if Iran shows “genuine intent” and takes immediate steps to reduce regional tensions.
“The world is watching. Iran must offer credible assurances that it is not pursuing nuclear weapons and demonstrate this with verifiable steps,” Wadephul said. He called on Tehran to act responsibly before the conflict spirals further out of control.
The remarks come just days after Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting military and nuclear facilities in Iran, citing national security threats. Iran responded with missile barrages and drone attacks, triggering widespread concern across the region and beyond. Civilian casualties have been reported on both sides, and hundreds of foreign nationals—including German citizens—are being evacuated.
Germany has begun organizing emergency flights through Amman to bring its citizens home. Officials estimate that at least 180 Germans are seeking evacuation from the region.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz, speaking from the G7 summit earlier this week, reaffirmed Germany’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense but underlined that diplomacy remains the preferred path forward.
“Germany will always defend Israel’s security,” Merz said, “but diplomacy must not be ruled out. If Iran takes the first step, Europe is ready to respond constructively.”
Despite the rising military confrontation, European leaders believe that a diplomatic breakthrough is still possible—if Tehran halts its military escalation and re-engages with international frameworks, including the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which it had previously abandoned.
As the crisis deepens, Germany’s call for dialogue may offer one of the last remaining diplomatic openings before a broader conflict engulfs the region.
