Washington: German leaders have expressed concerns over the potential risks associated with a US military attack on Iran. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, during a press conference at the White House after meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasized the shared concerns of Germany, the United States, and Israel regarding Iran's longstanding threats to regional stability and its support of terrorism.

According to Thai News Agency, Chancellor Merz highlighted the oppressive nature of Iran's regime and its threats towards Israel. He noted that Iran's missile and nuclear programs have been a source of instability in the region for decades, alongside its support for Russia's war against Ukraine. While acknowledging these threats, Merz cautioned against the risks of using military force, expressing uncertainty about whether such actions would catalyze political change within Iran. He also clarified that Germany had not been asked to participate in military actions and that any decision to do so would require parliamentary approval.

During this third visit to the White House since assuming office in May 2025, Chancellor Merz addressed President Trump's decision to sever trade ties with Spain due to its refusal to allow the use of its bases for an attack on Iran. Merz reminded Trump that Spain, as an EU member, cannot be singularly targeted without collective EU retaliation. He also defended British Prime Minister Keir Starmer against Trump's criticism, emphasizing Starmer's efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, despite Britain's decision to limit US military base use to defensive purposes.

Concluding the discussions, Chancellor Merz secured a commitment from the US to advance trade negotiations ongoing since August of last year. He reiterated the EU's stance on increasing pressure on Russia, weakened by the protracted conflict in Ukraine, and affirmed that Europe will not permit any agreements negotiated independently of the EU, nor will it accept further territorial losses by Ukraine.