Germany defends arms exports to Saudi, citing Iran

A German minister defended on Wednesday arms exports to Saudi Arabia because he said they strengthened the Gulf country's ability defence against Iran, as Berlin came under fire over a controversial tank deal.

Without confirming or denying media reports that Chancellor Angela Merkel's government approved the sale of 200 Leopard 2 tanks to Saudi Arabia, Deputy Economy Minister Hans-Joachim Otto told parliament Saudi Arabia was a key ally in fighting terror. (Reuters)