The piece reflects on the shifting perceptions of international law in light of the recent military actions taken by the United States and Israel against Iran, which have contributed to a fracture in the longstanding political consensus in Germany about the importance of adhering to these legal frameworks. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) highlighted this 'dilemma,' acknowledging that the Iranian government was not deterred by international law or existing sanctions, thus raising questions about the efficacy of diplomatic approaches.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supported this notion during a gathering with EU ambassadors, suggesting that the European Union cannot solely rely on a rules-based system to protect its interests. Her comments point towards a re-evaluation of Europe's strategic approach in the international arena, emphasizing that reliance on established systems may not always serve as an advantageous framework. This reflects broader concerns about geopolitical shifts and the changing landscape of international relations.

The implications for Germany and the EU could be significant as they navigate a more complex global environment where traditional diplomatic tools may not yield the desired effects against aggressive actions by states like Iran. This situation could prompt a reconsideration of defense policies and alliances within Europe, as leaders weigh the balance between adherence to international law and the necessity of protecting national and collective interests in an increasingly turbulent world.