Statements by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on the illegality of the strike against Iran point to a growing gap between his stance and the course pursued by Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government, Die Zeit reports.

According to the publication, the head of state effectively criticized the actions of the United States and Israel, framing the conflict as a violation of international law. In doing so, he diverged from the federal government, which has so far avoided making such direct assessments.

Steinmeier also signaled that Germany and Europe may find it difficult to maintain the same level of close relations with the United States in the future.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has likewise expressed dissatisfaction with Washington’s actions, indicating that the situation leaves him perplexed and, at times, irritated.

Meanwhile, the military operation by the United States and Israel against Iran has entered its fourth week, with both sides continuing to exchange strikes. Authorities in Tel Aviv state that their objective is to prevent Teheran from acquiring nuclear weapons. In Washington, officials have spoken about plans to dismantle Iran’s military capabilities and have called for a change of power. Iran, for its part, emphasizes its readiness to defend itself and maintains that there are no grounds for resuming negotiations.