Overview
- Iran is obstructing traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and reportedly trying to lay sea mines, while the United States has destroyed mine‑laying vessels and has not begun tanker escorts as options are evaluated.
- EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signaled that Europe cannot rely solely on a rules‑based order to protect its interests, prompting fresh discussion of strategic posture.
- Germany’s SPD leadership said that, based on available information, international law has not been respected in the attacks on Iran, reinforcing a clear party position.
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the situation as a “dilemma” and stopped short of an unequivocal legal condemnation, a stance highlighted and criticized in German media commentary.
- Germany’s new BND chief, Martin Jäger, plans a radical reorganization to gather intelligence faster and more independently, including riskier operations and recruiting hackers.