BERLIN: Germany, France and Britain are ready for immediate talks with Iran on its nuclear programme in an effort to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said.

The foreign minister, who is on a visit to the Middle East, said he was trying to contribute towards a de-escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran, noting that Tehran had previously failed to take the opportunity of constructive talks.

“I hope that’s still possible,” Wadephul told German public broadcaster ARD late on Saturday.

“Germany, together with France and Britain are ready. We’re offering Iran immediate negotiations about the nuclear programme, I hope [the offer] is accepted.”

German foreign minister says conflict can only be ended with pressure on both countries

Mr Wadephul said resolving the nuclear issue was critical to securing the region.

“This is also a key prerequisite for reaching a pacification of this conflict, that Iran presents no danger to the region, for the state of Israel or to Europe,” he said.

German foreign minister, who was in Oman on Sunday, said the conflict would only be ended when influence is exerted on both Iran and Israel from all sides.

When asked whether he believed the Iranian government could fall, Mr Wadephul said his assumption was that it was not Israel’s intention to bring down the administration in Tehran.

Turning to Gaza, Mr Wadephul called the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave “unacceptable” and urged Israel to allow unrestricted access for aid organisations.

Published in Dawn, June 16th, 2025