German Chancellor Warns of Hormuz Blockade Economic Damage, Ready for Military Action

Germany — Ekhbary News Agency

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that the ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would inflict severe economic damage on all parties involved. Merz affirmed Germany's readiness to take military action to ensure freedom of navigation in the strategic strait, provided the necessary conditions are met. This warning comes as the strait remains effectively closed, leading to widespread market disruptions and unprecedented interruptions in energy supplies.

US Criticism and Lack of European Consultation

Former US President Donald Trump had sharply criticized NATO members for not deploying naval forces to assist in opening the Strait of Hormuz during the conflict. Chancellor Merz, for his part, confirmed that there had been no consultations with German and European sides before the United States and Israel launched their attack on Iran on February 28. Merz conveyed his doubts directly to Trump following these events, noting that if he had known the situation would persist and worsen for five or six weeks, he would have expressed it more clearly.

European Efforts to Clear the Strait and Conflict Costs

Merz explained that some parts of the Strait of Hormuz contain mines, and Europeans had offered to send German mine-sweepers to clear the strait and secure navigation. He emphasized that this conflict is costing Germany "a lot of money, much taxpayer money, and a significant portion of its economic strength." Hopes for reviving peace efforts in the region have diminished since Trump canceled his envoys' visit to the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, reflecting the increasing complexity of the current geopolitical and economic challenges.