Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday urged Israel to immediately halt its military strikes on Lebanon, and warned that the escalation risks derailing efforts to achieve a durable ceasefire between the US and Iran.

According to Anadolu Agency, Merz expressed deep concern over the situation in southern Lebanon during a news conference in Berlin and said Germany is working with European and regional partners on diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict. Merz stated, "The intensity with which Israel is waging war there could cause the peace process as a whole to fail - and that must not happen." He emphasized that he, along with other heads of state and government, has called on the Israeli government to cease its intensified attacks.

Merz is reportedly in personal contact with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the developments. He also noted that German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul had two conversations on Wednesday with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar to communicate Berlin's stance. "As in recent weeks, we are coordinating closely and continuously with our partners in Europe and the region," Merz added.

Israel conducted one of its largest strikes in Lebanon on Wednesday, following its military offensive against Hezbollah that began early last month. The attacks resulted in the deaths of at least 254 people and injured 1,165 others, as reported by Lebanon's Civil Defense. The escalation has heightened concerns about a potential renewed Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon, possibly extending to the Litani River.