Germany's Merz demands quick end to Iran war, rules out naval deployment

2026-03-16 - 20:13

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday demanded a quick end to the war against Iran and flatly ruled out sending German naval forces to the Gulf to escort oil tankers. Speaking at a news conference in Berlin, Merz warned that the risks associated with the US and Israeli military campaign are too high and urged all sides to pursue a political solution to the conflict. Political solution needed "The Iran war must be brought to an end as quickly as possible and with a clear plan, with a strategy," Merz said. "There will be no military solution, only a political one. I can only urge all parties involved to seek a political solution. Germany stands ready to contribute." The chancellor emphasized diplomacy over military engagement as the conflict enters its 18th day. Rejection of US request Merz also rejected US President Donald Trump's call for NATO allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that neither the US nor Israel consulted Germany and allies before launching the conflict. "Regarding Iran, there has never been a joint decision on whether or not to engage. Therefore, the question of how Germany will contribute militarily does not arise. We will not do so." NATO alliance principles Merz pushed back against Trump's warning that NATO faces a "very bad" future if allies refuse to deploy navy ships. "We are fulfilling our obligations within NATO, and let me reiterate: NATO is a defensive alliance, not an interventionist one. For that reason, I hope that we will treat each other with the necessary respect within the alliance." Conflict context The US and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, killing over 1,200 people according to Iranian authorities, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with strikes targeting Israel and Gulf states, while the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, disrupting global oil supplies. Germany's refusal to participate marks a significant rift among NATO allies over the conflict.