In a statement outlining Germany’s position on the Middle East crisis, Merz said that the Strait of Hormuz remained a vital maritime route for oil and liquefied natural gas exports and that its closure by Iran represents one of the central points of conflict and a major obstacle to reaching a diplomatic solution.

He stressed that the blockade of the strait was already harming the German economy and that Berlin was making efforts to restore freedom of navigation as quickly as possible.

Merz added that, if the appropriate conditions are met, Germany would be prepared to participate militarily in ensuring the long-term security of maritime routes.

He noted that a German naval vessel has already headed to the eastern Mediterranean for pre-positioning in preparation for any potential mission to secure navigation.

He also said that any German participation in an operation to secure the Strait of Hormuz would require three conditions: the end of the war, a legal basis and authorisation from the German parliament, and the existence of a comprehensive and sustainable political and military framework.

He warned of the dangers posed by Iran targeting Germany’s regional partners and of Iran obtaining any nuclear weapons.

Merz emphasised that Iran’s military nuclear programme must be permanently and definitively halted, arguing that Tehran’s negotiating strategy is aimed at buying time and holding the world hostage through the disruption of maritime navigation.