German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned about the risk of the war escalating toward Iran and reiterated that Germany will contribute to the security of the Strait of Hormuz only after the conflict concludes.
“An escalation of the war into a broader regional conflict would put pressure on Germany and Europe, similar to the war in Ukraine or the coronavirus pandemic,” Merz said during a press conference after meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
He specifically highlighted the rapid rise in fuel prices and the need for additional security measures at synagogues and Jewish communities.
Germany will contribute to the security of the Strait of Hormuz only after the war in Iran ends, the Chancellor emphasized again, adding that the best solution is a swift resolution of the armed conflict.
“If the necessary conditions are met, Germany will, of course, be ready to contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the region,” he said, proposing that the initiative should come from an international contact group to coordinate countries willing to assist.
When further questioned, Merz once again ruled out the possibility of German armed forces participating in a military operation.
