During the call, Merz emphasized the necessity for Iran to engage in negotiations and to refrain from developing nuclear weapons. The discussion also touched on the potential for Chinese assistance in reopening the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has largely blocked. Furthermore, Merz and Trump coordinated their positions ahead of the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, scheduled for July. Despite recent tensions over Merz’s critical remarks regarding U.S. strategy in the Iran conflict, he reiterated the strong partnership between the U.S. and Germany within NATO.