rki.news
Sources: Anadolu
Germany’s Merz calls for Iran to return to talks
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday urged Iran to return to negotiations with the United States, warning that continued escalation would have serious consequences for regional stability and the international system.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Berlin with Swiss President Guy Parmelin, Merz said Tehran must “come to the negotiating table” and stop “playing for time,” stressing that Iran should not “hold the region and the world hostage.”
His remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump postponed a planned large-scale military strike against Iran following appeals from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. However, Trump warned that US forces remain ready for immediate action if diplomacy fails to deliver an agreement.
Merz also raised concern over the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, saying it threatens global energy supplies and is already affecting export-oriented economies such as Germany and Switzerland.
He said Germany, with international partners, is working to restore freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway as soon as possible.
“Once conditions are met, Germany will also be ready to contribute its military capabilities,” Merz said, adding that Europe remains committed to maritime security operations if required.