Germany: Merz Criticizes US “No Exit Strategy” in Iran War and Warns of Economic Fallout
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has criticised the United States over what he described as a lack of an “exit strategy” in the ongoing war involving Iran, while also commenting on Tehran’s negotiating approach and warning of economic repercussions for Europe’s largest economy.
Speaking during a discussion with high school students in the western town of Marsberg, Merz said the key challenge in such conflicts is not only entering a war but also knowing how to exit it, drawing parallels with past US military engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq. He argued that Washington entered the Iran conflict without a coherent strategy, making it more difficult to bring it to a conclusion.
The chancellor said he does not expect a rapid end to the war, claiming that Iran has proven more resilient than anticipated and that the United States lacks a convincing negotiating approach. He also described Iranian officials as highly skilled negotiators, adding that they are adept at prolonging discussions rather than reaching agreements.
Merz further warned that the conflict is already affecting Germany’s economic performance, stating that the war has had a direct impact on growth prospects. His comments come as Germany, under his conservative-led coalition, revised downward its economic forecasts, citing global instability linked to the conflict.
According to recent projections, the German government now expects growth of around 0.5% for the current year, down from earlier estimates, and has also lowered expectations for the following year. The revision reflects broader concerns about the economic consequences of geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Iran.
Merz’s remarks come amid growing political pressure at home, with recent polling indicating declining public satisfaction with both his leadership and the governing coalition.
