German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to end the ongoing fighting in southern Lebanon and begin direct peace negotiations with the Lebanese government.
According to a spokesman for the German chancellor, Merz, during a telephone conversation with Netanyahu, also expressed grave concern over the situation in the Palestinian territories. He said that any de facto annexation of parts of the West Bank could not be permitted.
Referring to rising tensions with Iran, the German chancellor said Germany stands ready to play a role in ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
He added that such an offer would only be feasible if hostilities in the region come to an end and the necessary conditions are in place.
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