BERLIN: In a surprising statement, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has described the Islamic Republic of Iran as “clearly stronger” in its war against the United States (U.S.) and Israel.
Speaking at a student gathering on Monday, April 27, 2026, Merz said the U.S. was being humiliated in the ongoing war, while expressing concern that the global superpower could become trapped in another prolonged conflict similar to those in Iraq and Afghanistan.
He said, “The problem with such conflicts is that you don’t just have to get in, you have to get out as well. We experienced that very painfully for 20 years in Afghanistan and in Iraq as well.”
Merz also commented on Iran’s negotiating approach, saying it was being handled very skillfully, and added, “They appeared clearly stronger than one thought.”
He called for an immediate end to the war, stating, “This conflict with Iran has a direct impact on our economic output.”
According to Al Jazeera, Berlin has also expressed readiness to deploy minesweeping boats in the Strait of Hormuz to help clear the key oil trade route of mines if the U.S. and Iran agree to a cessation of hostilities.
The strong remarks from a European and NATO member state leader come after U.S. President Donald Trump described the alliance as a “paper tiger.”
Earlier, a leaked Pentagon email suggested that the U.S. was considering strict action against Spain, including the possibility of suspending its membership from the alliance due to its outright opposition to the U.S.-Israel war against Iran.