Accessibility links

Breaking News

Merkel: Iran 'Threat' To Europe, Not Only Israel


German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hold a joint press conference in Jerusalem on February 25.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hold a joint press conference in Jerusalem on February 25.
Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel said her country views Iran as a potential threat not only to Israel but also to Europe.

Merkel made the remark on February 25 in Jerusalem during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

However, Merkel stopped short of endorsing Israel's demand that Iran should give up all sensitive nuclear projects under any negotiated deal with world powers.

Merkel said Germany would pursue international talks with Iran over its disputed nuclear program.

Netanyahu reiterated Israel's position that Iran continues to pursue nuclear weapons. He said Iran is also developing long-range ballistic missiles "to deliver those weapons."

Netanyahu added the missiles were "intended" for Europe and the United States. Iran denies the allegations.

Merkel and Netanyahu also discussed U.S.-mediated peace talks with the Palestinians.

Based on reporting by Reuters, dpa, and AFP

RFE/RL has been declared an "undesirable organization" by the Russian government.

If you are in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine and hold a Russian passport or are a stateless person residing permanently in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine, please note that you could face fines or imprisonment for sharing, liking, commenting on, or saving our content, or for contacting us.

To find out more, click here.

XS
SM
MD
LG