Berlin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed strong concern about the current approach of the United States in its confrontation with Iran, warning that the lack of a clearly defined strategy is contributing to growing instability in the region.
Speaking to students during an event in Marsberg, Merz stated that recent developments suggest Washington has not articulated a coherent long‑term plan for managing the crisis. He emphasized that any military or diplomatic engagement must include a clear path forward and a realistic exit strategy, noting that past conflicts have demonstrated the risks of acting without such preparation.
According to the chancellor, the absence of visible progress in diplomatic contacts has allowed Iran to strengthen its position. Merz described a scenario in which U.S. representatives participate in meetings abroad without achieving concrete results, while Iranian officials alternate between negotiation and inaction, complicating efforts to reduce tensions.
Concerns About Transatlantic Coordination
Merz also highlighted that Germany and other European partners were not informed in advance of joint U.S.–Israeli strikes against Iranian targets. He confirmed that he has raised his concerns directly with President Donald Trump, stressing that the conflict has immediate repercussions for European economic performance and that a rapid de‑escalation is essential for the stability of key industries.
These remarks represent a shift from previous comments made last year, when Merz suggested that certain military actions indirectly relieved pressure on Europe. He now warns that the prolonged confrontation poses significant economic and geopolitical risks.
European Union Maintains Its Position
Despite the chancellor’s warnings about the economic impact, the European Union continues to uphold its current policy toward Tehran. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has rejected proposals to ease existing restrictions in order to restore energy flows, reiterating the EU’s commitment to maintaining pressure on the Iranian government.
