German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Announces Direct Talks with Iran Following US-Brokered Ceasefire

Berlin. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced that Germany will resume direct talks with Iran to support the two-week ceasefire recently agreed upon between the United States and Iran. Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, he stated that for the first time after long-standing tensions, a genuine opportunity for a diplomatic solution has emerged. However, he emphasized the need for caution, noting that the overall situation in the West Asia region remains highly sensitive and volatile.

Following the ceasefire between the US and Iran, direct talks are scheduled to be held in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. A high-level German delegation has already departed for Pakistan to participate in these discussions. Merz also mentioned that he is scheduled to hold a telephone conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where preparations and coordination for the talks are expected to be discussed.

In the meantime, Merz has also held a telephone conversation with the US President. He urged the United States to take these talks seriously and play an active role in establishing long-term peace. Germany appears to be positioning itself as a mediator, striving to advance bilateral dialogue.

However, he clarified that there have been no discussions regarding the withdrawal of US military forces stationed in Germany, signaling that the Germany-US security partnership remains intact.

Additionally, Merz expressed serious concern over the situation in Lebanon, another sensitive area in West Asia. He warned that the ongoing military operations by Israel in Lebanon could negatively impact the overall peace process. According to him, if such activities continue, there is a high risk that the newly initiated diplomatic efforts could fail.

Germany views the current situation as an opportunity to resolve matters diplomatically and appears to be intensifying efforts to establish peace in coordination with international partners.