German Media: Criticizes Germany for Refusing to Assist in Hormuz Escort Mission; Trump Says "Ukraine Is Not Our War Either"

After Germany declined to assist in securing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the Iran conflict "is not our war," U.S. President Trump criticized Berlin's stance.

On Friday, U.S. President Trump criticized German Chancellor Merz for refusing to help ensure the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking at a meeting in Miami, Trump first attacked NATO allies France and the UK before turning his focus on Germany.

"Friedrich – the German Chancellor said [['This is not our war']],” Trump continued, “and the Ukraine war is not our war either, yet we are still helping them."

According to DPA, verbal exchanges between Washington and Berlin have become increasingly intense in recent days. On Thursday, Trump said he found it "inappropriate" for German officials to claim this conflict "is not our war," though he did not name anyone directly, merely attributing the remarks to "German leaders."

The phrase "this is not our war" originally came from German Defense Minister Pistorius, and earlier this month, Chancellor Merz also stated during a visit to Norway: "Germany is not a participant in this war, and we do not wish to get involved."

Trump had previously requested that NATO allies assist in securing shipping safety through the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently effectively blockaded. The strait is vital for global oil trade. Due to the lack of response from NATO partners, Trump has repeatedly voiced criticism.

Merz Condemns Trump's "Massive Escalation" of Tensions

Earlier Friday, German Chancellor Merz said President Trump’s actions constituted a "massive escalation" of tensions with Iran, rather than an effort to end the conflict.

Speaking at an event hosted by Frankfurter Rundschau, he said: "What Trump is doing now is not calming the situation or seeking a peaceful solution, but massively escalating the conflict, with unpredictable consequences."

Merz expressed doubt about whether Iran could undergo regime change.

"Is regime change really their goal?" he asked. "If so, I believe they cannot achieve it. Such attempts almost always end in failure."

Source: DW

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860905044877324/

Disclaimer: This article represents the views of the author alone