Germany’s Merz urges Iran to return to negotiations, says Europe could ease sanctions

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday urged Iran to resume negotiations with the US, saying European countries are prepared to gradually ease sanctions if Tehran engages constructively.

Speaking to reporters at the end of a two-day informal summit of EU leaders in the Greek Cypriot Administration, Merz said they discussed the latest developments and exchanged views over lunch with leaders from Middle Eastern partner countries.

“The negotiations must now continue; we are insisting on this. Iran is playing for time, and we must therefore increase the pressure on Iran,” Merz said, referring to the conditions Tehran set for attending a new round of talks with the US in Islamabad to end the war.

“If a comprehensive agreement is to be reached, then we will be ready to gradually ease the sanctions, but we are not there yet,” he added.

Germany’s conservative leader said their goal is to achieve a comprehensive agreement that would definitively end Iran’s nuclear program, stop Iran’s threats to Israel and neighboring countries, and ensure free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

He said Germany is also prepared to contribute to such a process for securing the Strait of Hormuz, in accordance with international law and in compliance with national procedures.

“For this, the war must be over. There must be a legal basis and a mandate from the German parliament,” Merz said. “And finally, there must be a viable political and military concept so that we can take such a step,” he added.