German, Israeli defense ministers hold talks amid Middle East tensions

Israeli's defense minister is meeting with his German counterpart for talks that come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East because of fears Iran is seeking to develop nuclear weapons.

German Defense Minister Thomas de Maiziere welcomed his Israeli counterpart Ehud Barak at Berlin's defense ministry Tuesday. Barak is also meeting German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle later in the day.

Barak told the Israeli lawmakers Monday that Iran's nuclear program is on the verge of becoming immune to disruptions by a possible military strike. The remarks fueled already rampant speculation that Israel is preparing for a strike before Iran moves most of its nuclear facilities underground.