German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, after meeting US President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday (March 4, 2026), stated that Germany will not take part militarily in strikes against Iran, though he defended the US and Israel’s actions.

• Merz said both countries had “good reasons,” noting Iran was close to acquiring nuclear weapons.

• He clarified that Germany has not received any request for military support from either Washington or Tel Aviv.

• The meeting also covered the war in Ukraine, with Merz calling for a stronger European role in potential peace talks.

• On tariff disputes, Merz stressed Europe relies on free trade rather than new tariffs, warning that Europe has reached its limits.

• Trump previously announced plans for a global 15% import tariff and is considering differentiated tariffs per country.

Sources – Agencies