05.02.2026 00:55
The European Union has also drawn its swords against Iran, which is under threat of an attack from the United States. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the violence Iran is inflicting on its own people must end immediately, and he also mentioned that they are in dialogue with the United States and Israel, saying, "We are ready to further increase pressure on Tehran."
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made a statement at Berlin-Brandenburg Airport before his 3-day visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
"THE VIOLENCE THAT IRAN EXERCISES AGAINST ITS OWN PEOPLE MUST IMMEDIATELY END"
Emphasizing the importance of peace and security in the region, Merz stated, "The violence that the Iranian regime exercises against its own people must immediately end." Merz noted that Iran must halt its nuclear program, refrain from launching ballistic missiles from Iran to Israel or Gulf countries, and put an end to its destabilizing activities in the region.
"WE ARE READY TO INCREASE PRESSURE ON TEHRAN EVEN FURTHER"
Recalling that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has been placed on the European Union's (EU) terrorist list, Merz said, "We are ready to increase pressure on Tehran even further." He also mentioned that they are in dialogue with the USA and Israel, stating, "We are ready for talks that will serve to quickly end Iran's nuclear and armament program."
CALL FOR COOPERATION WITH GULF COUNTRIES: WE CAN INCREASE OUR FREEDOM, SECURITY, AND PROSPERITY IN THE LONG TERM
Stating that he will make his first visit to the Gulf region as Chancellor, Merz emphasized that they want to develop and deepen strategic dialogue in Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. Merz expressed that they need such partnerships more than ever in a period where great powers determine politics, saying, "If we have such partnerships, we can better protect and increase our freedom, security, and prosperity in the long term."
"WE NO LONGER HOLD GULF COUNTRIES UNDER GENERAL SUSPICION"
Merz explained that partnerships with Gulf countries also provide the opportunity to diversify oil and gas supply chains, emphasizing that mutual trust must be built to establish partnerships with these countries. He also stated that they continue to be critical, saying, "However, we no longer hold Gulf countries under general suspicion. We seek dialogue where we see issues and discuss the matters."