A policy brief by the Tehran Think Tank examining Germany’s position in the Iran–Israel war and the underlying reasons for its support of the Zionist regime
During the Iran–Israel war, the German Chancellor openly expressed support for Israel, stating: “Israel is doing the dirty work for all of us (the West).” This was not the only hostile remark directed at Iran during the conflict. At the outset of Israel’s aggression against Iran, the German government justified its support by invoking Israel’s “legitimate right to self-defense.” Additionally, Germany’s Defense Minister, reacting to the U.S. strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, went so far as to call it “good news” and described it as “a major step toward eliminating a serious threat.”
Despite failing to condemn Israel’s attacks, German officials continue to urge Iran to return to negotiations and emphasize the importance of diplomacy in resolving the conflict. This raises an important question: What factors underlie Germany’s unconditional support for Israel and its growing hostility toward Iran?
The Roots of Germany’s Escalating Hostility Toward Iran
Shift to the Right Among Germany’s Ruling Parties
The ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Germany has become more right-leaning, strengthening ties with Israel and the U.S. Germany now sees its security as linked to Israel’s, viewing any threat to Israel as a threat to itself.
Perceived Threat from Iran Due to Its Proximity to Russia
Iran’s military cooperation with Russia, especially in Ukraine, raises German concerns about Iran’s missile and drone capabilities. Germany pursues diplomacy publicly but aims to curb Iran’s military strength.
Decline in Iran–Germany Economic Relations
Trade between Iran and Germany dropped from $3.4 billion in 2017 to $1.5 billion in 2024, reducing Germany’s incentive to maintain positive relations. Iran’s threats to block Middle Eastern oil heighten economic concerns in Germany.
Influence of Zionist and Iranian Opposition Lobbies in Germany
Despite citing human rights and antisemitism concerns, Germany’s hostility stems more from the influence of Iranian opposition and Zionist lobbies pushing for a tough stance against Iran after October 7, 2023.
Conclusion
The current German government has shifted from pursuing diplomacy and de-escalation toward confrontation and tension, aiming to contain and even weaken Iran in favor of Israel. The key factors behind this shift include perceived threats from Iran’s cooperation with Russia, the rightward shift of Germany’s government, declining economic ties between the two countries, and the influence of anti-Iranian and Zionist groups within Germany. Therefore, it seems unlikely that Iran–Germany relations will move toward de-escalation in the short term; at best, the relationship is expected to remain at the current level of tension.
