German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says concerns about Iran are “very, very high” among regional leaders, calling on Tehran to return to negotiations with the US and end its nuclear programme as he ended his three-day tour in the Middle East.

“Intensive diplomatic contacts are underway to persuade Iran to cease violence against its own people, end its nuclear programme , and return to the negotiating table, where peace and stability throughout the region will be negotiated,” Merz told reporters in Abu Dhabi after a meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

“My conversation partners in Riyadh, Doha, and here in Abu Dhabi today are all working very hard, together with the US, to bring the regime in Tehran to its senses and, above all, to return to the negotiating table.” he said.