Due to the military escalation in Iran, the first charter flight with German citizens arrived at Frankfurt Airport early on Thursday morning. The evacuation, organized by the German government, mainly concerns people who were stuck in the region after the US-Israeli air attacks began last Saturday. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stressed that particularly vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, sick people, and children, would be prioritized when selecting passengers. More flights from Muscat, the capital of Oman, are planned for the coming days.
The Israeli government described the operations against Iranian military facilities and the nuclear program as a historic success for the protection of the civilized world. Reports suggest that the offensive was preceded by a targeted deception operation to lull the Iranian leadership into a false sense of security. Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney signaled during a visit to Australia that while military involvement by his country remained hypothetical, it could not be categorically ruled out. He emphasized solidarity with Western allies but simultaneously criticized the compatibility of the attacks with 'international law'.
Amidst the hostilities, signs of efforts for a change of regime within Iran are increasing. Kurdish exile groups and opposition members in Northern Iraq are reportedly preparing to take an active role in a federal transformation process should the state order in Tehran collapse. At the same time, the effects on the Ukraine war are being analyzed: Experts expect that the military weakening of Iran could significantly restrict its capabilities for arms deliveries to Russia.
