Merz warns Iran over Hormuz blockade, nuclear issue

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Iran to return to negotiations after reported strikes on the United Arab Emirates.

“The United Arab Emirates has once again been the target of Iranian drone and missile attacks. We strongly condemn these attacks. Our solidarity is with the people of the United Arab Emirates and our partners in the region," he said. 

“The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz must end. Tehran must not acquire a nuclear weapon. There must be no further threats or attacks against our partners,” he added, urging Iran to return to the negotiating table and “stop holding the region and the world hostage”.

The United Arab Emirates has once again been the target of Iranian drone and missile attacks. We strongly condemn these attacks. Our solidarity is with the people of the United Arab Emirates and our partners in the region.

— Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (@bundeskanzler) May 4, 2026