Germany’s head of state calls the conflict unlawful and signals a potential shift in Europe’s strategic alignment following tensions with Washington.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Germany’s president issued a sharp critique Tuesday of the ongoing conflict involving Iran, describing it as unlawful and warning that it could permanently alter relations between Europe and the United States.
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, speaking at the foreign ministry, said the war represented a violation of international law and challenged the justification for military action. “Our foreign policy does not become more convincing just because we do not call a breach of international law a breach of international law,” he said. “We must address this with regard to the war in Iran. For, in my view, this war is contrary to international law.”
Steinmeier also questioned claims that the conflict was driven by an imminent threat to U.S. interests, stating he did not find that argument credible. He described the decision to engage in the war as both unnecessary and politically damaging, calling it a “politically disastrous mistake.”
His remarks marked a more direct stance than that of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has avoided making a definitive statement on the legality of the conflict. Steinmeier, whose role is largely ceremonial, is not responsible for setting policy but can speak more openly on foreign affairs.
In his address, Steinmeier said the consequences of the war could reshape transatlantic relations. “Just as I believe there will be no going back in relations with Russia to before February 24, 2022, so too do I believe there will be no going back in transatlantic relations to before January 20, 2025,” he said.
The president also emphasized the need for Germany to reassess its reliance on external partners, particularly in areas such as defense and technology. He referenced past efforts to reduce dependence on Russia and suggested similar considerations may now apply to the United States.
Germany has increasingly focused on diversifying its technological and economic partnerships as concerns grow over strategic dependencies. Trade dynamics have also shifted, with China regaining its position as Germany’s top trading partner during the first eight months of 2025, surpassing the United States amid tariff-related pressures on exports. Trade between Germany and the U.S. during that period exceeded $190 billion.
Steinmeier pointed to recent tensions between the U.S. Department of Defense and artificial intelligence firm Anthropic over safety measures as an example of broader challenges in transatlantic cooperation. He suggested that such developments could prompt Europe to strengthen its own capabilities.
“Europe as a technology hub has talent, markets, opportunities and, importantly, ethical standards. We should build on these,” he said.
The remarks reflect growing debate within Europe over strategic autonomy and the future of cooperation with the United States as geopolitical tensions continue to evolve.
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