DW Berlin Briefing - Inside German politics Principle vs power: Merz, Trump & the Iran war
Mar 6, 2026
Ines Pohl, DW’s Washington bureau chief who reports from the Oval Office, breaks down high-stakes diplomatic theatre. She discusses Germany’s tightrope between law and power, Merz’s cautious DC maneuvering, Trump’s unpredictable Oval Office moments, and rising strains on transatlantic unity. Short, sharp takes on who backs whom and what that means for global stability.
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Merz Frames Iran Strikes As Principle Versus Power
- Friedrich Merz framed the US/Israel strikes on Iran as a dilemma between principle and pragmatism rather than a clear legal judgment.
- He said condemning Iran under international law failed because partners weren't prepared to use military force, signalling a shift away from law as the decisive framework.
Chaos Of The Oval Office Press Point
- Press corps lined up outside the Oval Office and shouted questions into a cramped space, with only select journalists picked to ask.
- Michaela Küfner described being about five metres from Trump and having to shout her question to get his attention.
Trump Uses Oval Theater To Set The Tone
- Ines Pohl observed Trump turned the Oval Office into a stage he controls, using physical theatrics and friendliness to dominate meetings.
- She described a 'good buddy' male interaction with Merz, Trump bumping his leg and setting the tone while Merz stayed cautious.