US to Withdraw 5,000 Troops From Germany Amid Trump–Merz Clash Over Iran War and NATO Tensions

The United States has announced the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany, escalating tensions between Washington and European allies amid growing disagreements over the Iran conflict.

The Pentagon confirmed the decision on Friday, stating that the drawdown will take place over the next six to twelve months. Germany currently hosts around 35,000 US troops, making it the largest American military presence in Europe.

The move follows a public dispute between US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently criticized Washington’s handling of the Iran war, saying the Iranians were “humiliating” the United States in negotiations and questioning the US exit strategy.

A senior Pentagon official, speaking anonymously, said German remarks were “inappropriate and unhelpful,” adding, “The president is rightly reacting to these counterproductive remarks,”

The official also indicated that the troop reduction would bring US military levels in Europe back to pre-2022 figures, before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine prompted a major NATO buildup under the Biden administration.

The decision reflects Trump’s broader strategy of pushing European nations to take greater responsibility for their own security, while also signaling frustration with NATO allies over perceived lack of support in the Iran conflict.

Reports suggest internal Pentagon discussions have included broader options targeting allied nations considered uncooperative, including reviewing military cooperation agreements.

Tensions have also extended to other European countries. Trump has previously criticized Spain for refusing to support US operations related to Iran and has questioned NATO allies for not contributing naval support to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route that has been disrupted during the ongoing conflict.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical flashpoint, with continued instability contributing to volatility in global energy markets.

German officials, meanwhile, have argued that Europe was not consulted before US and Israeli strikes on Iran began on February 28, and have expressed concerns about Washington’s strategy.

Despite the troop withdrawal, Germany has recently approved increased defense spending, signaling its intention to strengthen its own military capabilities.

Analysts warn the decision could further strain US–Europe relations. One former Pentagon official noted that European leaders may increasingly view Washington as an unreliable security partner, potentially accelerating efforts to build independent defense systems.

The withdrawal includes the removal of a brigade combat team and cancellation of a planned long-range fires battalion deployment to Germany, marking a significant shift in US force posture across Europe.