Merz Urges End to Iran Conflict, Says Ties with Trump Remain Intact Despite Tensions

Berlin, April 2026 : Friedrich Merz has said his personal relationship with Donald Trump remains intact despite a recent exchange of sharp remarks over the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Addressing a press conference in Berlin on Wednesday, Merz stated that he and Trump continue to be “on good speaking terms,” even as he reiterated his long-standing scepticism about the United States’ military approach in the region.

Merz stressed the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict, noting that both Germany and the broader European region are facing significant economic consequences, particularly due to disruptions in global energy supply chains.

The German Chancellor had earlier criticised Washington’s involvement as lacking a clear strategy, describing it as “planless” and warning that such an approach risks undermining the United States’ position. In response, Trump took to social media, dismissing Merz’s comments and asserting that the German leader “doesn’t know what he’s talking about,” while accusing him of overlooking Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Speaking during an interaction at a school in North Rhine-Westphalia, Merz questioned the US administration’s ability to bring the conflict to a swift conclusion. He cautioned that entering a conflict without a clear exit strategy could prolong instability.

“The problem with such conflicts is not only how to enter them, but how to exit them,” he said, underlining the complexities involved in military engagements.

Merz also reiterated Germany’s willingness to contribute to safeguarding the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global route for oil and gas shipments. However, he clarified that any German involvement would be contingent on the complete cessation of hostilities.

The tensions stem from the escalation that began with the US-Israel strikes on Iran February 2026, when joint attacks targeted Tehran and other cities. Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes against US and Israeli interests, while tightening its control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Although a ceasefire was reached on April 8, diplomatic efforts—including talks in Islamabad—failed to produce a lasting agreement. The situation further intensified after the United States imposed its own blockade on the waterway.

The ongoing disruption has had a direct impact on global markets, pushing crude oil prices sharply higher, with Brent crude reportedly crossing $107 per barrel earlier this week.

Merz’s remarks highlight growing European concerns over the economic fallout of the conflict, even as diplomatic tensions between key Western allies continue to simmer.

(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)