German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that the United States is being 'humiliated' in its war with Iran, warning that Washington lacks a clear exit strategy as Tehran gains the upper hand.

Speaking to students in Marsberg on Monday, Merz highlighted a deeper strategic problem for the US, drawing comparisons with past military debacles in Afghanistan and Iraq, where the US also struggled to withdraw.

Merz claimed Iranian officials are 'negotiating very skillfully' and appear 'clearly stronger than one thought', adding that 'an entire nation is being humiliated by the Iranian leadership', particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The German leader urged a rapid end to the war, warning that the fallout is already hitting Germany's economy, especially through energy price hikes and economic instability.

Merz said Berlin remains ready to deploy minesweepers to help secure shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global petroleum supplies, but stressed that such steps depend on a cessation of hostilities.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned at the UN that nuclear threats continue to shape the security environment, reaffirming the need for a credible deterrent as long as such threats persist.

France and Germany have recently deepened cooperation on nuclear deterrence, reflecting mounting anxiety in Europe over both the Iran war and broader regional instability.

Source: www.aljazeera.com