German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s diplomatic push in the Gulf hit a nerve with Iranian officials, sparking a fiery online rebuttal from Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Labeling Merz as ‘politically clueless,’ Araghchi’s X post came hours after the chancellor called for Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions and engage in talks to avert war.
On the eve of pivotal discussions with American diplomats in Qatar, Merz addressed reporters in Doha, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue. ‘There’s a huge risk of military escalation in the region,’ he stated firmly, directing Iran to cease threats against Israel and other states while shutting down its nuclear activities. He expressed optimism about ramping up negotiations soon, bolstered by close US-German alignment.
Araghchi wasted no time responding, amplifying Merz’s pre-tour message that singled out Iran as a peace roadblock. In his detailed riposte, the Iranian minister pointed to Merz’s prior denunciation of Israel’s 2025 attacks on Tehran’s facilities, accusing him of inconsistency and inexperience.
Confronted with Araghchi’s attack, Merz remained unfazed. ‘That post signals extreme nervousness and insecurity,’ he replied, framing it as a sign of Iran’s unease. The exchange unfolded against the backdrop of Merz’s packed schedule, featuring sit-downs with Saudi and Qatari royalty before heading to the UAE.
Tehran, for its part, maintains it values ties with ordinary Germans but expects better judgment from their leaders. This clash arrives at a precarious moment, as Gulf leaders grapple with spillover risks from Iran-Israel frictions. Merz’s tour underscores Europe’s proactive role in stabilizing the volatile area, even as rhetoric heats up.
Observers note the chancellor’s measured approach contrasts sharply with Araghchi’s bluntness, potentially complicating multilateral efforts. With stakes this high, every word carries weight in the quest for calm.