German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier criticized the US-Israeli war on Iran as a breach of international law. He said the conflict has caused a “deep rift” with traditional allies and eroded global trust in American power politics. The remarks signal growing European unease over the military campaign.
Speaking at the 75th anniversary of Germany’s foreign ministry, Steinmeier compared the current situation to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. He warned that just as there was no return to pre-2022 norms, “there will be no going back to before January 20, 2025,” referring to Donald Trump’s second term. His comments underscore long-term diplomatic concerns.
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Although largely ceremonial, Steinmeier stressed that Germany cannot ignore breaches of international law, stating the US-Israel attack on Iran is “politically disastrous” and unnecessary. He rejected claims of an imminent threat from Iran, calling such justifications invalid. The statement challenges the legality and legitimacy of the military action.
Meanwhile, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has criticized Iran but supported key US-Israeli goals, while clarifying Germany would not join the war. He said Berlin would have advised against military action if consulted in advance. The division reflects Germany’s struggle to balance alliances with international legal principles.
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Steinmeier emphasized that Germany must remain pragmatic yet principled, rejecting alignment with a worldview that disregards rules and trust. He concluded that dealing with the US requires realism without compromising Germany’s core values or international norms.