Jerusalem - Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has congratulated German Chancellor Angela Merkel on her election victory, his office said Wednesday, and commended her "tough stance" on Iran. Netanyahu and Merkel have agreed to meet in December in Berlin, in the framework of a joint meeting of the Israeli and German cabinets.
Germany and Israel agreed last year to hold annual joint forums of ministers. Their first was held in Jerusalem, as Israel celebrated 60 years since the state was established in May 1948.
Netanyahu "expressed appreciation for Germany's tough stance on the issue of Iran" in the telephone conversation late Tuesday, his office said in a statement.
Israelis have reacted enthusiastically to Merkel's election win, with many regarding her policies as friendly toward Israel.
