The President’s Inbox Why Allies Aren’t Following on Iran, With Kristi Govella and Constanze Stelzenmüller
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Mar 25, 2026 
Constanze Stelzenmüller, Brookings expert on European politics and transatlantic ties, and Kristi Govella, CSIS specialist on Japan and U.S.-Japan security, discuss allies’ hesitant responses to Operation Epic Fury. They cover Europe’s public distancing, Germany’s basing support and political limits, Japan’s constitutional constraints and energy dependence, and how hedging and domestic politics shape strategic choices.
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Europe Says No While Enabling US Operations
- European leaders publicly declare this is "not our war" yet quietly allow U.S. use of bases in eight countries, showing pragmatic support without frontline participation.
- Constanze Stelzenmüller notes Germany hosts major U.S. facilities (Ramstein hospital, Stuttgart command) and bears much of the cost.
German Bases Are Key And Costly For Washington
- Germany bears substantial costs for U.S. basing despite hosting major U.S. assets critical to operations in the region.
- Constanze Stelzenmüller highlights large facilities, equipment, hospitals, and that Germany pays most upkeep costs.
Japan's Constraints Limit Direct Military Help
- Japan condemns Iran and supports the U.S. rhetorically but remains legally and politically constrained from active military participation.
- Kristi Govella explains Japan's postwar constitution limits use of force to cases where Japan's survival is threatened.