Germany and Norway on Friday ruled out naval deployments to the Strait of Hormuz amid reports that G7 nations are exploring escorting tankers through the strategic waterway.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his country has no current plans for naval deployment in the region, pointing to critical unanswered questions surrounding the escalating US and Israeli war with Iran.
"Above all, the question remains: When will this war end, and what strategy will be used to bring it to an end?" Merz said at a joint news conference with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. "These questions haven't really been answered. Therefore, from my perspective, there is currently no reason to consider military protection of the waterways."
During his visit to Norway, Merz said the two leaders discussed recent Middle East developments, the war's impact on energy markets and diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
“Let me say this very clearly once again: Germany is not a party to this war, and does not want to become part of it,” he said. “In this regard, all our efforts are focused on ending the war, and this is precisely what we are discussing with both the US administration and the Israeli government.”
Store echoed those concerns, noting the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world's oil passes.
"A war has begun there, and it is escalating with no end in sight," the Norwegian prime minister said. "We currently have no plans to conduct military operations there."
By Ayhan Simsek in Berlin
Anadolu Agency
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