German FM: Berlin supports Israel on Iran
Guido Westerwelle says Germany's tolerance on Iran's nuclear program has limits in press conference with Lieberman; notes Berlin would consider aggravating sanctions should talks with Tehran fail. Lieberman addresses Shalit deal, waits to receive details before voicing an opinion
German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle said Berlin supports Israel in respect to the Iranian nuclear program during a joint press conference with Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman Tuesday. Westerwelle, who is currently visiting Israel, said he has stressed his country does not accept Iran's nuclear armament during a visit to the White House and noted there's a limit to Berlin's tolerance on the matter.
The German official said that all the world's nations are concerned with the issue and expressed hope that the crisis would be solved diplomatically. Westerwelle said that aggravated sanctions would be considered should Iran not withdraw its nuclear program and talks fail.
Addressing the current stalemate in talks between Israel and the Palestinians, Westerwelle stressed that Berlin supports the two-state solution and urged the parties to resume negotiations. The German FM said that the aim is to reach a fair solution for both parties, in which Israel would be recognized by its neighbors and maintain security, while the Palestinians would be allowed to establish a viable state. He further noted that the process must be based on regional stability.
Lieberman and Westerwelle. Keeping quiet on Shalit deal (Photo: Yossi Zamir)
Vote on Shalit deal
During the press conference Foreign Minister Lieberman was asked to address recent reports on a possible deal for the release of captive soldier Gilad Shalit. He noted that Yisrael Beiteinu ministers would be free to vote as they choose.
In respect to his own opinion on the matter, Lieberman said he could not express any position, let alone in public. "I shall address the matter when I see what's on the table," he said. "Each one of Yisrael Beiteinu ministers will vote according to his conscience, it's a difficult and extremely personal decision for both the party and the rest of the ministers."
Lieberman also slammed recent statements by government sources regarding the veracity of the reports on the deal.
"I don't think it's right for ministers in the government to convey a message and by-pass the chief negotiator in these sensitive talks. Hagai Hadas is the one who's in constant contact with the family and the German mediator."
Westerwelle, whose country acts as mediator in the negotiations, said that he could not address the issue in public since statements on talks may influence the parties involved, but noted that he hoped efforts would have a positive outcome.
