German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said the United States is facing a setback in its dispute with Iran, adding that the Iranians have proved stronger than expected.
In a statement, he said the course of events since the onset of the conflict had been as he had anticipated from the first day, noting that the Americans lacked a clear strategy for negotiations.
The German chancellor said his relations with US President Donald Trump remain cordial, but added that there is no sign of the conflict in the Middle East coming to an end.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has directed that pressure on Iran’s economy and oil exports be maintained.
He instructed that shipping to and from Iranian ports be halted, stating that commencing bombardment or withdrawing from the conflict would be more perilous than sustaining a blockade.
