German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered sharp criticism of Iran’s conduct in ongoing negotiations, accusing Tehran of humiliating the United States and expressing concern over Washington’s broader strategy in the Middle East, including in remarks directed at President Donald Trump.

Speaking Monday to students in the German city of Merseburg, Merz said Iran’s leadership is “humiliating the United States” by drawing American officials into talks that yield no results.

He elaborated on Iran’s approach, saying, “The Iranians are, of course, very skilled in negotiations—or more precisely, very skilled at not negotiating, by allowing the Americans to travel to Islamabad and then return again without any result.” He added, “An entire nation is being humiliated by the Iranian leadership, especially by what are known as the Revolutionary Guards, and I hope this ends as quickly as possible.”

Merz also voiced skepticism about the direction of U.S. policy, stating that he does not see a clear exit strategy in Washington’s confrontation with Iran. His comments underscore reported tensions between the United States and its European NATO allies, which have also surfaced on other issues such as the war in Ukraine.

Addressing the regional situation, Merz said there is a sense that European powers were not included in consultations prior to the U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran at the end of February. He noted that he conveyed his concerns directly to President Trump afterward, saying, “If I had known this would last five or six weeks and gradually escalate, I would have said it even more forcefully.”

Drawing comparisons to past American military engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan, Merz warned that the current situation is having economic consequences for Germany. “It is costing Germany a lot of money, a lot of taxpayers’ money and a lot of economic strength,” he said.

He also addressed developments in the Strait of Hormuz, saying there are indications that parts of the area have been mined, and noted that Germany has offered to send naval vessels to assist in mine-clearing operations.

{Matzav.com}