Germany Chancellor says Iran sanctions could ease under deal to end the war
4/24/2026 7:49:00 PM
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said the European Union could consider easing sanctions on Iran if a comprehensive agreement is reached to end the war.
Speaking after an EU summit in Cyprus, Merz signalled that sanctions relief could form part of a broader diplomatic process.
“The easing of sanctions can be part of a process,” he told reporters.
Merz suggested there was support among EU leaders for exploring that path.
“No one has objected to that,” he said, adding that such steps could help drive negotiations forward and contribute to a lasting ceasefire.
Merz’s comments point to a potential European role in diplomacy, with sanctions seen as leverage to push both sides towards a broader settlement.
Speaking after an EU summit in Cyprus, Merz signalled that sanctions relief could form part of a broader diplomatic process.
“The easing of sanctions can be part of a process,” he told reporters.
Merz suggested there was support among EU leaders for exploring that path.
“No one has objected to that,” he said, adding that such steps could help drive negotiations forward and contribute to a lasting ceasefire.
Merz’s comments point to a potential European role in diplomacy, with sanctions seen as leverage to push both sides towards a broader settlement.