German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has sharply criticized the United States’ strategy in its ongoing conflict with Iran, warning that Washington lacks a clear path to resolving the crisis and risks being outmaneuvered.
Speaking during a meeting with students in Marsberg on Monday, Merz said Iranian leaders are negotiating “with notable skill” and appear “stronger than previously assumed.”
“It is clear that the United States does not have a coherent strategy,” he said. “In conflicts like this, it is not enough to know how to enter — you must also know how to exit.”
Merz drew comparisons to past U.S. military engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq, arguing that both conflicts were ultimately mismanaged. He suggested that similar strategic shortcomings are now visible in Washington’s handling of Iran.
According to the German leader, Tehran has taken advantage of the situation through calculated diplomacy. “The Iranian leadership is effectively humiliating the United States,” he said, pointing in particular to the role of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
Stalled Diplomacy and Rising Tensions
The conflict escalated on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched large-scale military strikes against Iran. Tehran responded with attacks on Israeli territory and targets across the Gulf region.
The confrontation also led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipments, intensifying economic pressure worldwide.
Although a ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran took effect on April 8, negotiations mediated in Islamabad have stalled in recent weeks, casting doubt on prospects for a lasting settlement.
Europe Calls for Strategic Clarity
Merz emphasized that Europe has not been sufficiently included in U.S. decision-making, despite being directly affected by the crisis.
“As Europeans, we have offered to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz after negotiations conclude,” he said. “Germany is prepared to deploy mine-clearing systems to secure the route — but first, the fighting must stop.”
He warned that the current trajectory offers little hope for a quick resolution. “At this moment, I do not see a clear way forward,” he added. “Iran appears stronger than expected, while the United States lacks a convincing negotiation strategy.”
Economic Impact on Europe
The German chancellor also highlighted the economic consequences of the conflict, noting that rising energy prices have placed significant strain on European economies, including Germany.
He urged all parties to bring the conflict to an end as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to global markets and regional stability.
Uncertain Future for Talks
Diplomatic efforts suffered another setback after Donald Trump announced the cancellation of a planned visit by U.S. officials to Pakistan for further talks with Iran. The decision came shortly after an Iranian delegation departed Islamabad.
Trump later stated that negotiations were taking “too much time,” adding that if Iran wished to engage, “they should call us.”
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