Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have jointly offered to hold immediate negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme in a bid to de-escalate mounting tensions in the Middle East, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced.
Speaking during a visit to the region, Wadephul emphasized the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further conflict between Israel and Iran. He noted that Iran had previously missed opportunities for constructive dialogue but expressed hope that talks could still be revived.
“I hope that’s still possible,” Wadephul told German broadcaster ARD. “Germany, together with France and Britain, is prepared to begin immediate negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme. I hope this offer will be accepted.”
Wadephul stressed that resolving the nuclear issue is essential to achieving broader regional peace. “A key condition for stabilizing this conflict is ensuring that Iran no longer poses a threat to the region, to the state of Israel, or to Europe,” he said.
Speaking from Oman on Sunday, Wadephul said meaningful international pressure must be applied on both Iran and Israel to break the current cycle of violence. “There is a shared expectation that within the next week, both sides must make a serious effort to halt the spiral of escalation.”
Asked whether he believed regime change in Iran was a possible outcome, Wadephul said he did not believe Israel’s goal was to topple the Iranian government.
On the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Wadephul described the situation as “unacceptable” and called on Israel to allow unrestricted access to international aid organisations.
“The hunger, the dying, the suffering of people in Gaza must end,” he said, while holding Hamas responsible for sparking the conflict. He reiterated that the group must release hostages taken during its October 2023 attack on Israel.
