06.03.2026 20:20
A striking call has come from Europe to the US and Israel, who are attacking Iran. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated, "An endless war is not in our interest. The same applies to the collapse of the Iranian state structure or proxy wars on Iranian soil."
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made a written statement regarding the crisis in the Middle East.
"AN ENDLESS WAR IS NOT IN OUR INTEREST"
Merz stated that the German government shares the goals of the US and Israel, and emphasized that the people of Iran also have the right to freely determine their own destiny. However, he highlighted that the risks of the duration and spread of the conflicts are increasing, and these risks are related to the security of Israel and the entire Gulf region, as well as Iran's state structure and territorial integrity. Merz used the expression, "An endless war is not in our interest. The same applies to the collapse of the Iranian state structure or proxy wars on Iranian territory."
"SECURITY, ENERGY SUPPLY, AND MIGRATION CAN HAVE FAR-REACHING CONSEQUENCES FOR EUROPE"
Merz warned that such scenarios could have far-reaching consequences for Europe in terms of security, energy supply, and migration, stating, "That is why we are working together with our partners to create a common perspective to end these conflicts and contribute to its implementation." He expressed that the aim should be to establish a regional peace arrangement that guarantees the security and existence of all states, including Israel and Gulf countries, and to initiate a political process that fosters dialogue and trust in the region after the conflicts end.
"IRAN SHOULD NOT BECOME A STAGE FOR PROXY WARS"
Merz stated that Iran's military nuclear program and ballistic missile program should be verifiably terminated, and it should be ensured that Iran's nuclear materials do not fall into the hands of non-state actors or third countries, saying, "Iran's territorial integrity must be preserved. Iran should not become a stage for proxy wars, and the Iranian state must maintain its functionality."
Merz emphasized that public order must be maintained in the country and essential services must continue, stating, "The Iranian economy must not collapse. Uncontrolled migration movements from Iran must be prevented." German Chancellor Merz noted that if Iran meets these conditions, there is a perspective for the lifting of sanctions and the provision of aid.