BERLIN

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday called on Iran to enter serious negotiations to halt its nuclear program, warning that the potential for military escalation in the Middle East is great.

Speaking to reporters in Doha, Qatar, Merz said recent developments on Iran were among the main issues he plans to tackle during his Gulf tour, amid US warnings of possible military intervention.

“In all my conversations yesterday (in Saudi Arabia) and also here (in Qatar) today, great concern has been expressed about a further escalation in the conflict with Iran,” the conservative leader said.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to call once again on the Iranian leadership to enter into serious negotiations, to end the aggression, to end the nuclear program, as agreed internationally,” he stressed.

Merz said it would be a positive development if such talks with Iran could be achieved in the coming days with US representatives participating.

"In any case, I want to do everything I can to contribute to de-escalation,” he said, adding that Berlin is ready to work with regional partners to ensure stability.