Germany's Merz calls for plan for 'day after' in Iran

BERLIN, March 1 (Reuters) - ‌German Chancellor ​Friedrich ​Merz called on U.S. and European partners to start planning for the future ‌of Iran and the region, saying the people ⁠of Iran deserved a better future after U.S. and ‌Israeli strikes killed its supreme ‌leader.

Merz said his government agreed with U.S. goals to end Tehran's nuclear armament and finish ​a "destructive game" being played by Iran, but he warned of possible dangers ahead.

"This is not ⁠without risk. We do not know how far the region will ​be drawn into escalation by Iran's harsh counterstrikes," Merz told reporters.

Pointing to some reservations ​over the U.S. and Israeli ‌actions, Merz said now was not the time to lecture partners and allies, ⁠despite doubts.

"We want to work with our partners in the U.S., Israel, the region, and Europe to develop ⁠an agenda for the day after," said Merz.

His four ​aims were to ensure peace and stability in the region, to get Iran to end its nuclear and ballistic missile ‌programme, to contribute to a stable future for Iran and to help ‌Iranians decide their own fate.

Merz also said Germany ⁠would not tolerate attacks ‌on U.S. or ​Israeli institutions in the country.

(Reporting by Alexander Ratz and Madeline Chambers; Editing by Alison ‌Williams)

---

Serious News for Serious Traders! Try StreetInsider.com Premium Free!

---

You May Also Be Interested In

• New report of attack on Strait of Hormuz shipping fans fears of threats to oil supplies
• Kyiv preparing for talks to resume in October, senior Ukrainian official says
• Russian attacks kill 10, injure dozens in Ukraine; Russia says it hits ships, plants