Foreign min on Reuters

  • will do everything possible together with European partners to help Kurdish forces defend themselves
  • says Germany knows the risks attached to sending weapons, will show moderation

Defence min adds:

  • currently examining what weapons Germany can make available and what is needed by Iraq’s Kurds
  • will decide in one week
  • weapons will be sent directly to Northern Iraq in close dialogue with Iraqi govt

Lest we forget the heat’s finally being turned up, and some, in this conflict

Add:

  • Italy also ready to send arms says defence minister
  • will be providing light weapons and ammunition
  • there needs to be close co-ordination between countries supplying assistance to avoid duplication