German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said that Iran has proved to be a much stronger nation than many expected in the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. He made the remarks while speaking to high school students in the town of Marsberg, Germany, on Monday.
Merz criticized the United States for entering the war without a clear plan. He said America now lacks a convincing exit strategy, comparing the situation to the long and difficult wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The chancellor added that Iran has shown skill in negotiations, or in avoiding real talks, leaving the US in a difficult position. He even stated that Iran is “humiliating” the United States.
“Iranians are clearly stronger than expected, and the Americans clearly don’t have a truly convincing strategy,” Merz said. He noted that Iran has managed to keep its position firm despite the conflict, including actions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil supplies.
The chancellor warned that the war is hurting Europe’s economy. Germany has already lowered its GDP growth forecast for 2026 from 1% to just 0.5% because of higher energy prices and global uncertainty caused by the fighting.
Merz also faces growing public dissatisfaction with his leadership and the governing coalition amid rising economic worries and global tensions.
His comments highlight divisions between the US and some European allies over the conflict. They show how the war is affecting not only the Middle East but also economies far away.
