Trump slams Germany’s stance on Iran, raises nuclear alarm

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for his remarks on the Iran conflict, accusing him of misjudging Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and misrepresenting its position. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Merz “thinks it’s OK for Iran to have nuclear weapons” and added, “He doesn’t know what he’s talking about” while warning that a nuclear-armed Iran would pose a global threat.

“If Iran had a nuclear weapon, the whole world would be held hostage,” Trump said, adding: “I’m doing something with Iran right now that other nations or presidents should have done a long time ago.” His comments come at a time of rising tensions between the United States and its European allies over ongoing conflict and differences.

These words came after Merz’s criticism of the US approach to Iran the day before. The German Chancellor said Iran’s leadership had “humiliated” the United States in diplomatic contacts, noting that talks had reportedly failed, with US officials traveling to Pakistan without progress.

Merz also questioned Washington’s overall strategy, saying he sees no clear exit plan in the Iran war. “The Iranians are clearly stronger than one single mind,” he said, adding that they negotiated “very skillfully” as the conflict developed.

He also warned about developments in the Strait of Hormuz, saying the route was “partially mined”. He said any disruption in the strait could have an immediate and far-reaching impact on global oil shipments and trade.

The exchange highlights growing differences between the United States and European allies over the handling of the Iran conflict, amid broader geopolitical tensions.