“We do have long-standing concerns about the nuclear program that Iran has, and we do recognize Israel’s right to self-defense,” he said on the plane to the G7 on Saturday. “But I am absolutely clear that this needs to de-escalate.”
Despite Iran firing numerous missiles at Israel since hostilities began on Friday, the U.S. and U.K. so far have not said they have assisted their ally in shooting them down, as they did when Iran fired missiles at Israel last year.
Trump on Sunday denied that the U.S. had been part of the Israeli attack on Iran, in which Israel targeted nuclear facilities and key figures on Friday, sparking Tehran’s response.
Speaking after a third day of fighting between Iran and Israel unfolded, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said late Saturday that talks should be scheduled within the next week to de-escalate the conflict.
“I hope that’s still possible,” Wadephul told ARD late on Saturday. “Germany, together with France and Britain are ready. We’re offering Iran immediate negotiations about the nuclear program, I hope (the offer) is accepted.”
World leaders have repeated calls for restraint, fearing the conflict will spread in the region, which has already been embroiled in war for almost two years.