Merz: Iran's collapse would have serious consequences for us, we need a peace plan.

Germany is pursuing diplomatic efforts to end the growing conflict with Iran, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Friday, warning that a prolonged struggle poses a serious risk to European security and economic interests.

“We are trying to make sure that the Iran War ends”, Merz told reporters at a press conference in Norway, answering a question of whether Germany would try to establish direct talks with Tehran to reopen Hormuz's plight for oil tanks and cargo ships.

We're doing everything we can diplomatically. We are using all diplomatic channels, and we hope to find a way to end this war as soon as possible because it benefits no one and causes economic damage to many. It also hurts us”, he said.

Merz spoke with Norwegian and Canadian colleagues after observing soldiers from NATO member states during the “Cold Reaction”, a Norwegian-led winter military exercise under way in northern Norway and Finland.

The German Chancellor said the conflict had had had immediate consequences for Euro-Atlantic security and energy supplies. He expressed serious concern over Iranian revenge attacks that hit countries in the region that are not involved in the conflict, as well as allied states, calling it a dangerous escalation.

We share important goals for the United States and Israel. Iran should not pose a threat to Israel and its other neighbours. But with each passing day that this war continues, more questions arise. One thing is becoming increasingly clear: we need a convincing plan on how this fight can end”, he said.

He also warned of the danger of an uncontrolled spread of the conflict, stressing that Germany and its partners oppose spreading war in the region or outbreak of civil war in Iran.

“If Iran's territorial integrity or citizenship were violated, or if Iran was no longer economically sustainable, it would have serious consequences for us as well. That's why we need a clear perspective for a peaceful order”, he concluded.