(JNS) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with German opposition leader Friedrich Merz in Jerusalem on Tuesday.

The two men focused on the countries’ “special relationship” and the potential for expanding ties in a range of areas, foremost security. They also discussed international issues, primarily the war in Ukraine.

Netanyahu called on Berlin to help curb the Islamic Republic’s nuclear and missile programs.

Among those participating in the meeting were Israeli National Security Council Director Tzachi Hanegbi and German Ambassador to Israel Steffen Seibert.

Last week, Netanyahu traveled to Berlin for a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Subscribe to The JNS Daily Syndicate by email and never miss our top stories

At a Holocaust memorial, the premier made an indirect reference to Israel’s efforts to prevent Iran from threatening the Jewish state with nuclear weapons.

“The calls to destroy the Jewish people have not ended. The main lesson we have learned is that when we are faced with such evil, we must stop the evil plans early to prevent a disaster,” said Netanyahu.

MAIN PHOTO: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with German opposition leader Friedrich Merz in Jerusalem, March 21, 2023. Photo by Amos Ben-Gershom/GPO.