Mood of crisis: Merz warns of escalation in the Middle East after US attacks
Chancellor Merz and European partners call on Iran to negotiate after US attacks on nuclear facilities.

Mood of crisis: Merz warns of escalation in the Middle East after US attacks
Recent developments in the Middle East are causing serious tensions and raising concerns about stability in the region. After the USA caused an uproar with air strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities last week, the federal government issued a clear warning. Chancellor Friedrich Merz, together with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is calling on Iran to come back to the negotiating table to take de-escalating measures. This initiative was underlined in a joint statement emphasizing a strong commitment to the peace and security of Israel. Radio Cologne reports.
The pressure on Iran is enormous. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul calls for direct talks between Iran and the USA. But the Iranian government has strictly rejected further negotiations. While Merz consults with his security cabinet ministers and consults with European partners, the international community is concerned about the possible consequences of this confrontation. The US position remains particularly explosive, as President Donald Trump describes the attacks as “very successful” and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praises them as an “overwhelming success”. International law experts, on the other hand, doubt the legality of these attacks. Loud daily news Such a military strike is difficult to justify under international law because there is a lack of reliable evidence of a planned attack by Iran on the USA.
International law implications
The focus is on international law, which obliges states to resolve conflicts peacefully. Article 2 of the UN Charter prohibits the use of force by UN members, but the right to self-defense under Article 51 allows for exceptions. The use of military means is only permitted if a state is directly threatened. Historians and international law experts point out that mere insinuating threats do not provide legal support for a preemptive strike. Loud MDR The presence of nuclear weapons alone is not reason enough to consider a military strike to be legal. Necessary information such as military mobilization must be present in order to create such a legal basis.
The mood in the Bundestag is divided. While Merz and his coalition are relying on further diplomatic efforts, the Left Party criticizes the US attacks as violating international law. Former SPD parliamentary group leader Rolf Mützenich also warns of the danger of further military conflicts. It is undeniable that recent events are impacting global politics - and not for the first time, the well-being of the people of the region is at stake.
In conclusion, the political situation between Iran, the USA and their European partners remains tense. It remains to be seen whether the diplomatic efforts will be successful or whether the situation will worsen further. International actors are called upon to act responsibly and do everything in their power to prevent further military deployment.