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

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

Trump said, “If Iran had a Nuclear Weapon, the whole World would be held hostage,” and added, “I am doing something with Iran, right now, that other Nations, or Presidents, should have done long ago.” His comments came amid rising tensions over the ongoing conflict and differences between the United States and its European allies.

The remarks followed criticism from Merz a day earlier over the US approach to Iran. The German Chancellor said Iran’s leadership was “humiliating” the United States in diplomatic engagements and pointed to failed talks that reportedly involved US officials travelling to Pakistan without progress.


Merz also questioned Washington’s broader strategy, saying he did not see a clear exit plan in the Iran war. He said, “Iranians are clearly stronger than one thought,” and added that they are negotiating “very skillfully” as the conflict evolves.

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

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