German President Strongly Criticizes Attacks on Iran
Berlin, April 2, 2026 — German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has sharply criticized the US and Israeli military strikes on Iran, stating that the war violates international law.
In a speech at the German Foreign Ministry, President Steinmeier described the ongoing conflict as a “politically disastrous mistake” and an “avoidable, unnecessary war.” He firmly rejected the justification of an “imminent threat” to the United States, saying the argument “does not hold water.”
“Our foreign policy does not become more convincing simply because we refuse to call a violation of international law what it is,” Steinmeier said. “We must address this with regard to the war in Iran. For, in my view, this war is contrary to international law.”
The German president warned that the conflict has created a deep rift in transatlantic relations between Germany and the United States, comparing it to past major foreign policy breaks. He emphasized that international law must remain the foundation of global relations and urged leaders to openly acknowledge breaches rather than ignore them.
This strong rebuke from Germany’s head of state highlights growing unease in Europe over the US-led military campaign against Iran, which began in late February 2026 and continues with exchanges of missile strikes.