BERLIN, April 14 (Xinhua) -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday voiced support for the U.S.-led military operation in Syria, marking a clear change from her earlier ambiguous tone.

Merkel called the joint strike by the United States, Britain and France early Saturday as "necessary and appropriate," saying it will "preserve the effectiveness of the international ban on the use of chemical weapons."

In the recent past, Merkel had reiterated that Germany would not participate should Washington decide to take military action against Syria for Damascus' alleged use of chemical weapons.

Germany has deployed planes over Syria strictly on recon and refuel missions, supporting international efforts against the Islamic State terrorist group. Parliamentary authorization is required to operate beyond the current mandate.