German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sharply criticized the U.S. approach to the ongoing Iran conflict, saying the administration of President Donald Trump has been "humiliated" and lacks a clear strategy to end the war. Stalled diplomacy Friedrich Merz claims the U.S. lacks a clear strategy to end the conflict. By: Unsplash Speaking during a visit with students in Marsberg, Germany, Merz said stalled diplomacy and prolonged fighting have deepened tensions between the United States and its European allies and also fueled economic uncertainty across the continent.