German media outlets are criticizing President Trump’s approach to Iran, arguing Europe should not assist the U.S. and should pursue greater independence from American military aid.
Europe Faces Pressure from Trump
German newspapers criticize President Trump’s attack on Iran as lacking a well-considered plan and accuse him of attempting to blackmail NATO allies. Commentators believe Europe should become independent from U.S. military assistance.
“This Is Not Our War” – Sueddeutsche Zeitung
“Sueddeutsche Zeitung” writes that, theoretically and ethically, Germany and NATO have no reason to succumb to Trump’s demand for assistance in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz. Joachim Kaeppner argues that Trump is attempting to leverage the situation.
NATO’s Defensive Mandate
The commentator explains that NATO is a defensive alliance, and the obligation to provide assistance applies when a member country is attacked from the outside, not when it initiates an attack violating international law. Furthermore, NATO and Europe were not privy to Trump’s war plans.
FAZ: U.S. Struggles Alone with Strait of Hormuz
“Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung” reports that Trump “had to admit that Iran is not Venezuela” and is now trying to force European allies, whom he often mocks, to provide military assistance in the Strait of Hormuz. This is seen as an admission that the U.S., despite claiming not to need allies, cannot independently secure this vital trade route.
Should Europe Help a “Blackmailer”?
The article questions why Europe should aid a “blackmailer” threatening NATO. It raises the issue of whether Europe can afford to reject Trump’s request and wait for the conflict to resolve itself, given the wider implications beyond the U.S.
Europa Should Limit Dependence on USA
Commentators emphasize that “this is not our war and this is not a NATO war,” but acknowledge Trump “ties everything together.” Europeans should learn from this conflict to reduce their dependence on American defense, alongside oil and gas.
A Deal with Trump?
The article suggests offering Trump a deal: European warships could protect the shipping lane, but “not on command, but in exchange for a concrete service.” This could involve Trump reinstating sanctions against Russia or committing to sustained support for Ukraine.
Sharp Criticism in “Stuttgarter Zeitung”
“Stuttgarter Zeitung” describes Trump as a “pitiful strategist” who starts wars without understanding the situation and ignores the expertise of his generals. The paper asserts that NATO leaders are right to refuse assistance, stating they are not Trump’s “vassals.”
Should Germany Send Ships to the Strait of Hormuz?
“Tagesspiegel” presents a different view, arguing the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial artery for the global, and German, economy. It advocates for an international mission to protect tankers, stating a German escort would not constitute entering the war.
Germany Cannot Remain Passive
The commentator believes Germany would be wrong to remain passive, given the importance of the Strait of Hormuz. While Merz hesitates, maintaining that position will be difficult, as Germany’s export-dependent economy relies on stable supply chains.