German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged a swift end to the ongoing Middle East conflict, warning that a collapse of Iran’s state structure could endanger European security. Speaking in parliament on Wednesday, he said such a scenario would negatively affect Europe’s energy supply and potentially cause a major refugee crisis. Merz emphasized that resolving the conflict quickly is in Europe’s best interest.

He revealed that the United States did not consult Germany before initiating the war, adding that Berlin would have advised against it. While acknowledging that Iran has long violated international norms and fueled regional instability, Merz questioned the credibility of U.S. and Israeli military strategies, saying neither had presented a convincing plan for success. He reaffirmed that Germany would not participate in the war as long as it continues.

The German government reiterated that NATO has no involvement in the conflict, and other European Union leaders have also signaled their intention to remain distant from it.