Merz softens Iran rhetoric, stepping back from earlier hardline comments

- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has publicly shifted his Iran remarks, earlier praising Israel and Trump and now citing economic exposure and caution. - Merz said Europe needs the strongest possible EU army and floated heavy fiscal moves, prompting criticism for policy flips. - His repositioning could reshape Germany’s stance on EU defense commitments and Ukraine‑related diplomacy. (x.com) (x.com)