Berlin – German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has delivered a sharp critique of the war against Iran, stating, “Our foreign policy does not become more convincing by not calling a breach of international law a breach of international law.” The President made these remarks during a speech commemorating the 75th anniversary of the re-establishment of the Foreign Office in Berlin.
A Shift in Tone
Steinmeier’s statement represents a departure from previous reluctance within the German government to explicitly label the war as a violation of international law. This shift in tone has sparked debate regarding Germany’s role in the conflict and its broader foreign policy approach.
Past Engagement with Iran
The President’s criticism is complicated by his own history. As Foreign Minister, Steinmeier was a key architect of the attempt to foster closer ties with Iran, an approach that was often perceived as appeasement.
Lamenting the Nuclear Deal’s Collapse
Steinmeier argued the war was “a politically disastrous mistake” and “an avoidable, unnecessary war if its goal was to stop Iran on the path to the atomic bomb.” He asserted that Iran was furthest from developing nuclear weapons after the 2015 nuclear agreement, a deal in which he played a role.
Geopolitical Realignment
Beyond the immediate conflict, Steinmeier addressed broader geopolitical shifts. He drew a parallel between Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, suggesting a fundamental break in the transatlantic relationship.
“Just as I believe that there is no going back to February 24, 2022, in relation to Russia, so I believe that there is no going back to January 20, 2025, in the transatlantic relationship,” Steinmeier stated. He called for Germany and Europe to become more independent from both Russia and the United States.
Concerns About Militarization
While acknowledging the need for a pragmatic approach, Steinmeier cautioned against growing militarism. He questioned a shift away from Germany’s traditional role as a “peaceful power” reliant on diplomacy and cultural influence, noting a perceived devaluation of international law and diplomatic efforts.
“Germany wanted to be a power for peace without military strength, perhaps shaping the world only with clever diplomacy. And today? Today, it sometimes seems to me that the pendulum is swinging in the opposite direction. References to international law are naive, diplomacy is ineffective, foreign cultural policy is dispensable, and only military strength counts.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Steinmeier’s role in the 2015 Iran nuclear deal?
As Foreign Minister, Steinmeier was one of the key architects of the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran.
Why is Steinmeier’s criticism of the war significant?
His criticism represents a departure from the German government’s previous stance and signals a potential shift in German foreign policy.
What did Steinmeier say about the relationship between the US and Germany?
He suggested a fundamental break in the transatlantic relationship, drawing a parallel to the situation with Russia.
What impact will Steinmeier’s statements have on future German foreign policy decisions?
