Germany Calls for Improved Relations Between Iran and Israel

Sigmar Gabriel, Deputy Chancellor of Germany, who arrived in Iran leading a business delegation for a three-day visit, urged Iranian officials in Tehran to improve their relations with Israel if they wish to expand long-term economic ties with Germany and Europe. On July 19, Gabriel stated to a group of German and Iranian businessmen in Tehran, 'If we cannot discuss issues like Israel, Iran cannot have good long-term economic relations with Germany.' Sigmar Gabriel, who is also the Minister of Economy, is accompanied by a large business delegation of over 60 members, including executives from Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Siemens, and the Federation of German Industry, according to Iran's state news agency. Germany was a member of the P5+1 group negotiating with Iran over Tehran's nuclear program, which ultimately led to a comprehensive agreement despite strong opposition from the Israeli Prime Minister. The lifting of international sanctions could mean the return of countries like Germany to invest in Iran's economy after years. However, the German minister stated that expanding economic relations has other conditions as well. According to Reuters, Gabriel said in Tehran, 'If we do not discuss these issues (Iran's relations with Israel) and do not strive for progress on them, you cannot have a good relationship with Germany in the long term.' He added, 'Questioning the existence of Israel is something we Germans cannot accept.' Tehran does not recognize Israel, and high-ranking Iranian officials have referred to the 'destruction' or 'elimination' of Israel on various occasions. These statements typically face global criticism. Sigmar Gabriel is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and a group of his ministers.