In a heated exchange unfolding across social media and press briefings, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has publicly ridiculed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, branding him politically immature and naive. The verbal sparring erupted just as Merz embarked on a critical three-day tour of Gulf nations, aiming to ease mounting regional tensions.
Merz, speaking to journalists in Doha’s bustling press room ahead of scheduled talks with US envoys, urged Iran to join immediate negotiations. He warned of the ‘very real danger’ of escalating military confrontations in the Middle East, insisting Tehran must halt its nuclear program and refrain from issuing threats to Israel and its neighbors. ‘Talks will intensify in the coming hours,’ Merz declared, highlighting strong coordination with Washington.
The chancellor’s comments drew a swift and scathing response from Araghchi on X, formerly Twitter. Quoting Merz’s earlier post that portrayed Iran as a primary obstacle to peace, Araghchi reshared it with a lengthy critique. He reminded Merz of his own past condemnation of an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear and military sites in June 2025, questioning the German leader’s sudden shift in stance.
When pressed on Araghchi’s post during the Doha briefing, Merz dismissed it outright. ‘I’ve seen the tweet,’ he said coolly, ‘and it reeks of panic and deep insecurity.’ The retort underscored the widening diplomatic rift between Berlin and Tehran.
Merz’s Gulf itinerary includes high-stakes meetings with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. His next stop is the United Arab Emirates, where discussions will likely focus on de-escalation strategies amid fears of broader conflict.
Despite the barbs, Araghchi struck a conciliatory note toward the German public, affirming Tehran’s respect for the people of Germany while calling for more ‘mature’ leadership from Berlin. As tensions simmer, this public feud highlights the fragile state of Middle East diplomacy, with world leaders scrambling to prevent a slide into open hostilities.