BERLIN, Feb 12: Israel’s prime minister vowed on Tuesday to respond to terrorism from Hamas-controlled Gaza “in every possible manner which will be effective,” and underlined his country’s belief that Iran is still seeking nuclear weapons.

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert spoke after meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whose country has been among those leading efforts to allay concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

The meeting came a day after Israeli Defence Minister Ehud Barak indicated his country might try to overthrow the Hamas regime in Gaza, and Hamas leaders went into hiding after an Israeli threat.—AP