Merkel: Iran deal ‘not sufficient’ to curb nuke program
German chancellor says in meeting with Trump agreement was 'a first step' to slow down Tehran's nuclear program, 'but we also think from a German perspective that this is not sufficient in order to see to it that Iran’s ambitions are curbed and contained.'
The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed by Tehran and six world powers including Germany and the United States, is “a first step that has contributed to slowing down their activities in this particular respect,” Merkel told reporters.
“But we also think from a German perspective that this is not sufficient in order to see to it that Iran’s ambitions are curbed and contained.”
“Europe and the United States ought to be in lock step on this,” she said.
Trump welcomed Merkel to the White House for a visit of less than three hours. He greeted Merkel outside the West Wing with a handshake and a kiss on each cheek, a traditional welcome but far short of the bountiful display of personal warmth that was seen earlier in the week when he played host to French President Emmanuel Macron for a lavish three-day state visit.
Trump, in brief remarks alongside Merkel in the Oval Office, called her an "extraordinary woman," congratulated her on her recent re-election and disputed any idea that their rapport was frosty.
"We have a really great relationship. We actually have had a great relationship from the beginning," Trump said.
Though her visit will be short on pomp, Merkel's message was similar to Macron's - that America and Europe need to bury the hatchet on key issues, from global trade to international security.
In a joint press conference Friday afternoon, it was apparent that despite the back-to-back visits, Trump's divisions with Europe are still substantial.
Trump is widely expected to withdraw the US from the Iran nuclear accord next month, despite pleas from Macron earlier this week and Merkel Friday.
Trump has said he was open to new negotiations with Iran, but has not said whether he would heed European calls for the US to stay in the deal, which aims to restrict Iran's nuclear efforts, while those talks are underway. His decision is expected by May 12.
