German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has called for a rapid end to the Iran war, pointing to the economic consequences the conflict is having on Germany. "We hope that we find ways to end this war as quickly as possible, because it benefits no one and harms many, economically us as well," Merz said on Friday during a press conference in Norway alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Speaking in response to a journalist's question about whether he would support direct European or German contact with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, effectively blocked by the Iranian military, Merz said: "We are making every effort to end this war in Iran and with Iran. All diplomatic channels are being used."
Merz also levelled criticism at the approach taken by Israel and the United States. While the federal government shares "important goals of the United States and Israel," he said that with each passing day of the war "more questions are being raised than answers are being given." "Above all, it is becoming increasingly clear: what is needed is a convincing plan, a strategy for how this war is to be brought to an end," he added.
"Meanwhile, we are seeing a dangerous escalation," Merz continued. "Iran is indiscriminately attacking states in the region, including close partners and allies of our country." The Strait of Hormuz had become "practically impassable," he said. "We condemn this in the strongest possible terms," the Chancellor stated.
"We have no interest in an endless war. A collapse of Iran's territorial integrity, statehood or economic viability would have serious consequences for us as well," Merz said. "That is why we now need a perspective for a peace settlement."
The United States and Israel began air strikes against Iran on 28 February. On the first day of the war, they killed the then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and numerous other members of the Iranian leadership. Iran has since been launching missile and drone attacks against Israel, several Gulf states, and US facilities in the region.
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