Nicosia / Berlin: Germany’s foreign minister Johann Wadephul has expressed caution about expectations that the ongoing war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran could end soon, warning that the conflict may continue until its strategic objectives are achieved.
Speaking during a joint appearance with Cyprus Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos in the Cypriot capital Nicosia, Wadephul suggested that the United States remains determined to weaken Iran’s military capabilities, which Washington and its allies believe pose a significant threat to regional and European security.
According to the German foreign minister, the current military operations appear focused on reducing Iran’s ability to launch attacks or threaten neighboring countries and European interests.
Wadephul said the strikes are likely to continue unless Iran demonstrates a serious willingness to enter negotiations aimed at de-escalating the conflict.
“I believe the attacks will continue until this objective is achieved or until the Iranian leadership shows a genuine readiness to negotiate,” he stated.
The German diplomat also stressed that European leaders must act quickly to position themselves diplomatically so they can play a meaningful role in any future negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
European governments have been closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East, as fears grow that the war could expand further and destabilize the region.
During his visit to Cyprus, Wadephul also reaffirmed Germany’s solidarity with Cyprus in case the island faces potential attacks involving Iranian missiles or drones. However, he made it clear that Germany currently does not support direct military involvement in the conflict.
The conflict has already triggered strong reactions from Iran, which has sharply criticized Germany’s position.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei accused some European Union members of aligning too closely with US and Israeli military actions. He warned that certain European governments risk being “on the wrong side of history” if they appear to support what Iran describes as acts of aggression.
Baghaei also urged the European Union to adhere to international law and avoid policies that could further escalate the conflict.
The exchange of criticism highlights the growing diplomatic tensions surrounding the war, as governments around the world struggle to balance security concerns with calls for restraint and negotiations.
Analysts say Europe could play a crucial mediating role if diplomatic talks eventually begin, though achieving a ceasefire or political settlement remains uncertain as the conflict continues to intensify.
