‘Not our war’: Germany, France say no to Trump

BERLIN/PARIS – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sharply rejected U.S. calls to join military operations against Iran. He expressed doubts about the rationale behind the U.S.-Israeli war. Merz told lawmakers that Washington provided no convincing plan or request for European assistance.

Merz emphasized that Germany would not participate in military actions to secure the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed that Iran should not threaten its neighbors. His Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius, also stated, “This is not our war; we have not started it.”

France echoed Germany’s position. President Emmanuel Macron said France is not a party to the conflict. European leaders broadly rejected direct involvement, wary of unpredictable consequences and domestic opposition.

European governments are balancing Transatlantic ties and domestic opinion. Polls show 58% of Germans and 68% of Spaniards oppose the war. Leaders calculate the risks of joining outweigh benefits. They also fear being dragged into an undefined conflict.

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz without direct U.S. involvement. France is assembling a coalition with European, Asian, and Gulf states to escort ships. The effort involves discussions with insurers, maritime authorities, and technical experts.

European leaders also criticized U.S. unpredictability. Merz and others objected to Washington loosening oil sanctions on Russia without consultation. Officials noted U.S. and Israeli war aims differ and remain unclear, including potential regime change objectives.

Ultimately, Europe seeks unity and calm in managing the crisis. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the bloc remains focused despite unpredictable U.S. actions. Leaders continue political and technical preparations to secure regional trade while avoiding direct war involvement.