Merz Questions US Strategy in Iran Conflict
Germany has expressed doubts over the United States' handling of the conflict with Iran. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said it was unclear what Washington's plan was for ending the war and warned of wider implications for Europe.
Speaking to students in the town of Marsberg, Merz strongly criticized the Iranian leadership. "An entire nation is being humiliated", he said, adding that the Revolutionary Guards played a particular role.
He also noted that Tehran was negotiating with considerable skill. Iran, he said, was "clearly stronger than one thought", which was complicating efforts to resolve the conflict.
Merz called for an end to the fighting as soon as possible, warning that the ongoing tensions were having a direct impact on the economy, including Germany's, as the country faces the consequences of regional instability.