Ex-NATO ambassador warns US and allies must 'stop the sniping' and unite to end Iran conflict

Volker appeared on "Fox News Live" to discuss the Trump administration's comments about reevaluating its relationship with NATO.

"We did not inform allies. We did not consult with allies. We did not set up a clear goal, a common operation. We didn't ask them. So, this went off the rails from the very beginning."

Volker argued that both sides need to pause before making any major decisions.

"We both need to take a breath, realize that NATO has a very important purpose, which is peace in Europe," Volker said.

President Donald Trump has signaled the White House might be rethinking its relationship with some European allies in the wake of the conflict.

Trump is expected to meet with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte next week for a planned visit. Volker said he believes he and Trump will have a better discussion about U.S. goals in Iran.

"I think with Rutte behind closed doors with President Trump, we have to talk about what's the way forward," Volker said. "What is the goal here now with Iran? Is it regime change or is it negotiating with the regime?"

"We've got to put together a viable plan, and work together on that and stop the sniping," he added.