Germany’s Merz criticizes US, Israel over prolonged Iran war

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday intensified his criticism of the United States and Israel over the protracted war with Iran, vowing that European nations will step up diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. “Regarding Iran, yes, I've become disillusioned,” Merz told a press conference in Berlin. “The US and Israel assumed, right from the start, that this problem would be resolved within a few days, and we now have to acknowledge that it isn't.” Merz had previously remarked that Washington lacks an “exit strategy” and that Americans were “humiliated” by Tehran.

European diplomatic push

The chancellor noted that Germany has resumed direct talks with Iran and is consulting regional partners to support initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict. “We are coordinating closely with the US side on this, but we also make it clear that we have our own European ideas on how to reach a resolution to the conflict,” Merz said. He added: “I hope we succeed, but I am not certain.” The comments reflect growing frustration in European capitals over the economic fallout from the war, including energy price spikes and disruption of Hormuz shipping.