German Chancellor Friedrich Merz moved to repair strained relations with President Trump following controversial comments about Iran that prompted a Pentagon troop withdrawal announcement. Merz initiated Friday's call after stating Iranian negotiators had 'humiliated' the United States and criticizing America's social climate and job prospects for graduates.

The diplomatic row escalated when Trump's administration signaled plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany's 35,000-strong U.S. military presence stationed there. Merz's remarks to German students questioning whether he'd recommend the U.S. for his children's education added pressure to an already tense bilateral relationship. The troop reduction could impact local German economies dependent on U.S. military spending.

During their conversation, Merz emphasized shared priorities including Iran negotiations and opening the Strait of Hormuz. Both leaders agreed Tehran must not obtain nuclear weapons and discussed Ukraine peace efforts ahead of the NATO summit in Turkey. Merz worked to maintain momentum with three White House visits since taking office in May 2025.

Despite Trump publicly calling Merz a friend, the chancellor faces domestic criticism over economic policies affecting younger Germans. His comments about declining American job opportunities for educated workers reflect broader concerns about transatlantic economic alignment, particularly as Germany maintains one of the EU's strongest graduate employment rates.