German Chancellor Merz vows to keep NATO united amid Iran tensions

BERLIN (AP) — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Wednesday that he does not want the U.S.-led military campaign against Iran to fracture the NATO alliance, confirming Germany’s intention to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Merz made the remarks during a press conference in Berlin as tensions escalated following the launch of coordinated strikes by American and Israeli forces on Iranian nuclear and military sites. The operation has raised concerns among European leaders about potential retaliation and the widening of the conflict across the Middle East.

"We must not allow this crisis to split our alliance," Merz told reporters. "Germany stands with our partners, but we must act to prevent further escalation that could drag the entire region into war."

The Chancellor confirmed that Germany is preparing to deploy naval assets to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, to help ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels. The move comes as international shipping companies have expressed growing anxiety over the security of the waterway following the conflict’s expansion.

Merz emphasized the need for continued dialogue between Washington and European capitals to maintain a unified front. He noted that while Germany supports the right of nations to defend themselves, the alliance must work collectively to manage the fallout and avoid a broader regional war.

The U.S. campaign, which began early Tuesday, targeted facilities linked to Iran’s nuclear program and its support for proxy militias. Israeli forces conducted simultaneous strikes on sites within Iran’s borders, marking a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict between the two nations.

European Union leaders have been divided on the extent of their involvement. While France and the United Kingdom have expressed strong support for the U.S. and Israel, other members have called for restraint and diplomatic solutions. Merz’s statement seeks to bridge these differences and reaffirm Germany’s role as a stabilizing force within the alliance.

The Chancellor also addressed the economic implications of the conflict, warning that disruptions to oil supplies could have severe consequences for the global economy. Germany, as Europe’s largest economy, has a vested interest in maintaining the flow of energy resources.

Merz did not specify the exact nature of Germany’s contribution to the security of the Strait of Hormuz, leaving details of the deployment to be finalized in the coming days. He indicated that further coordination with NATO partners would take place before any assets are committed.

As the situation remains fluid, questions persist about the long-term impact of the campaign on NATO cohesion and the stability of the Middle East. European diplomats are working to convene an emergency summit to discuss a unified response to the evolving crisis.

The international community watches closely as the conflict unfolds, with fears that miscalculations could lead to a wider war involving major powers. Merz’s efforts to maintain alliance unity reflect the broader challenge facing European leaders in balancing support for allies with the need for regional stability.