Germany’s Foreign Minister Continues to Pursue Diplomatic Efforts in Israeli-Iranian Conflict
Germany’s Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, has reaffirmed his commitment to de-escalating the conflict between Israel and Iran, emphasizing the country’s special responsibility towards Israel. In an interview with the Funke-Mediengruppe, Wadephul stated that as the Foreign Minister, it is his duty to continuously explore the possibilities of diplomacy, even if the chances may be slim.
The German Foreign Minister has been in close coordination with his US counterpart, Marco Rubio, on the initiative in Geneva, with both parties working to establish communication channels. Wadephul had a four-hour meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghatschi in Geneva, accompanied by his French and British counterparts, Jean-Noël Barrot and David Lammy, as well as the EU’s Foreign Policy Chief, Kaja Kallas. The meeting was described as “very serious” by Wadephul, with the possibility of further talks being discussed.
Germany, in concert with France and the United Kingdom, which form the E3 format, is united in its willingness to seek diplomatic solutions. Wadephul is also in close contact with Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar and emphasized Germany’s special responsibility towards Israel, both within the EU and the United Nations.
In a separate development, French President Emmanuel Macron has also expressed his intention to advance the negotiations aimed at de-escalating the conflict, having spoken with his Iranian counterpart, Peseschkian, by phone on Saturday.