Intelligence agents have privately warned of the potential of hybrid attacks from Iran-linked groups. But political leaders, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have publicly played down the risk.

Top leaders believe losing 5,000 U.S. troops will not hurt German security. But analysts fear an economic hit, especially in military communities.

Germany had appeared not to believe President Trump’s threats to pull troops from the country. Once it was announced, Berlin offered a measured response.

Germany has hugely increased its military spending, aiming to be less dependent on Washington. Its support for U.S. attacks on Iran may also give it leverage.

Throughout the war in Iran, Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, did all he could to keep President Trump happy. This week, Mr. Merz appeared to lose patience.