Iran FM rebukes Germany after Merz vows more pressure over nuclear program

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized Germany’s stance on Iran after Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Berlin was ready to increase pressure to end Tehran’s nuclear program.

“We are ready to further increase the pressure and to engage in talks that serve the purpose of a swift end to the Iranian nuclear program,” Merz wrote on X on Wednesday.

In response, Araghchi said Germany had abandoned a constructive role in diplomacy, pointing to Berlin’s earlier support for restoring UN sanctions on Iran. While emphasizing Iran’s long-standing relations with Germany and praising the German people, he added: “We hope that more mature and honorable political leadership will return to Germany.”