After months of negotiations between the German Machinists’ Union (GDL) and the German Railways (Deutsche Bahn) regarding employee subsidies and working hours came to a deadlock, drivers decided to strike for a second time in January. The strike, which is expected to last until Monday evening, immediately caused significant disruptions in railway transportation. The daily financial losses in freight transportation alone are said to reach 100 million euros.

GDL is primarily demanding that the weekly working hours of shift workers be reduced from 38 hours to 35 hours at full wage. Meanwhile, the union is demanding an inflation compensation bonus of 555 euros per month, in addition to a reduction in working hours.

german january strike train drivers

GalleryWORLDPOLITICS

Iran Warns Europe Over Nuclear Dispute

On Jun 6, 2025

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.

Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.

Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.

Europe Iran Nuclear UN Uranium

Train Drivers Stage A Second Strike in January in Germany

Iran Warns Europe Over Nuclear Dispute