Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over remarks on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, accusing him of misunderstanding global security risks and downplaying the threat posed by Tehran.
Reacting to Merz’s comments, Trump insisted that allowing Iran to acquire nuclear weapons would endanger the entire world.
“The Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, thinks it’s OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about! If Iran had a Nuclear Weapon, the whole World would be held hostage,” Trump said.
He added that he is currently involved in efforts regarding Iran that previous leaders should have handled long ago, while also taking a swipe at Germany’s economic performance.
“I am doing something with Iran, right now, that other Nations, or Presidents, should have done long ago. No wonder Germany is doing so poorly, both economically and otherwise!” he added.
Trump’s remarks came after Merz delivered unusually strong criticism of U.S. handling of the Iran crisis, saying Washington was being “humiliated” in its dealings with Tehran.
Speaking during an engagement with students in Marsberg, Merz questioned the effectiveness of recent U.S. diplomatic efforts, suggesting Iran was deliberately avoiding meaningful negotiations.
He also said the Iranian leadership had embarrassed the United States through stalled talks and ongoing tensions, expressing hope that the conflict would end quickly.
Merz further argued that neither Germany nor its European allies were properly consulted before military actions involving the U.S. and Israel began earlier in the year, highlighting growing divisions within NATO over global security issues.
He warned that the ongoing conflict was having serious economic consequences for Europe, particularly Germany, citing rising costs and strain on energy markets.
The German leader also referenced Europe’s offer to assist with naval operations in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route that has been disrupted by the crisis.
As tensions continue, diplomatic momentum appears to be weakening, with planned high-level visits reportedly cancelled and Iranian officials continuing consultations with regional powers.
