Gantz and Maas
Gantz and MaasAriel Hermoni, Defense Ministry

Alternate Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Benny Gantz, met earlier this afternoon, Wednesday, with German Foreign Minister, Mr. Heiko Maas, during his visit to Israel as a guest of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to a statement following the meeting, "Gantz and Maas discussed the close ties between Israel and Germany, which are grounded in common values and joint interests."

"Gantz expressed his appreciation for Maas’ personal involvement in outlawing Hezbollah activity on German soil and for the sustained commitment he has demonstrated to battling anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism, particularly within international institutions and on social media.

"The two further discussed regional developments, current political events and diplomatic items on the agenda. In that context, Gantz told Maas that the American government’s peace plan presents an historical opportunity and that he views its promotion, in tandem with the American government, as important. He emphasized the importance of a responsible overarching approach as well as overall communication with the different regional players, as part of a broader international dialogue.

"Gantz further discussed with Minister Maas the concerning data that arises from the recent IAEA report, which points to Iranian aggression, and drew the minister’s attention to the imperative to actively work from within the UN Security Council and within the European Union. Gantz pointed to the necessity of assuming assertive policy vis-à-vis Iran that would ensure that the necessary monitoring is in place to prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons, which would pose a threat to the entire world."