Tehran:Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has responded to remarks made by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently called for an end to the US-Israeli war on Iran. The conflict has been linked to rising energy prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Araghchi commented on Saturday after Merz highlighted that European businesses and consumers have faced over 100 billion euros in additional costs over the past eight months due to the conflict. Merz emphasized Europe's economic interest in resolving the war swiftly.

Araghchi recalled Merz's initial reaction to the US and Israel's military actions against Iran in mid-June 2025, which were justified by claims of targeting Iran's nuclear program. The Iranian foreign minister warned that Iran's Armed Forces would respond more forcefully if further aggression occurred.

Araghchi criticized Merz's previous support for the bombings, stating on X that the costs Merz mentioned pale in comparison to the potential retaliatory actions by Iran's military. He declared that "red lines are a thing of the past."

In March, Iran took control of the Strait of Hormuz as a defensive measure in response to the second US-Israeli war. While allowing passage to ships from friendly nations, Iran closed the strait after the US breached a memorandum of understanding intended to facilitate peace talks. The US military's subsequent attacks on Iran escalated tensions.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, responsible for a significant portion of global energy flows, has led to increased energy prices worldwide. This has sparked protests in Europe over the rising costs of energy and essential goods. Iran maintains that the strait will remain closed until US hostilities cease.