Germany’s Merz warns US-Iran truce is 'fragile' ahead of key talks

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday urged caution ahead of US-Iran talks in Islamabad, saying the sides remain far apart and that negotiations will be difficult.

Speaking at a news conference in Berlin, Merz welcomed the recent truce as a potential opening for diplomacy but stressed that the positions of both sides remain far apart and that a lasting agreement is far from assured.

“The last 24 hours alone have shown how fragile the ceasefire in the region is, how unclear the situation remains in the Strait of Hormuz, and how far apart the positions of the parties involved still are,” Merz said.

He added that Friday’s expected negotiations in the Pakistani capital would be “very challenging” and would test whether the temporary halt in hostilities can be turned into something more lasting.

“A sustainable agreement is needed to restore free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz,” Merz said. “But Iran’s nuclear program, its missile program and its support for proxies in the region must also be addressed.”

Merz emphasized that diplomatic success is “by no means guaranteed,” but said Germany has a fundamental interest in the talks succeeding because it would have direct consequences for regional stability and the global economy.

He also announced that Germany is planning to resume direct talks with Tehran, in coordination with US and European partners, in order to contribute to diplomatic efforts.

Asked about media reports that US President Donald Trump had issued an “ultimatum” to European allies to commit warships or other military assets within days to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, Chancellor Merz ruled out any swift German decision.

“Yesterday, I reiterated to President Trump in our phone call that we are prepared to help after a peace agreement — for example, by securing passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” Merz told reporters.

He stressed, however, that any German involvement would require two key prerequisites: an international mandate, ideally from the UN Security Council, and approval by the German parliament.

“The US president is fully aware of this, and therefore no decisions are to be expected from us within a few days,” Merz said. “We need time to prepare, and everything depends on these prerequisites.”

Merz added that he has discussed the issue with Trump on several occasions and that the American president respects Germany’s position.