The German Social Democratic Party (SPD) parliamentary group is intensifying pressure on the German government to actively facilitate internet access for protestors in Iran, arguing that a failure to do so constitutes a dereliction of responsibility. A newly released position paper, obtained by “Der Spiegel” and co-authored by Fraktionsvize Siemtje Möller and foreign policy spokesperson Adis Ahmetovic, outlines a series of escalating measures Berlin should undertake.
The paper explicitly calls for the German government to launch both diplomatic and technical initiatives designed to circumvent Iran’s strict internet censorship regime, underlining the necessity of enabling protestors to organize and communicate effectively. This demand reflects growing frustration within the SPD regarding the perceived inadequacy of current German policy towards Iran.
Beyond internet access, the SPD politicians are advocating for the swift designation of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization by the European Union. They assert the IRGC plays a central role in the violent repression of dissent and contributes significantly to regional instability. Further measures proposed include a substantial reduction in economic ties with Iran and a complete suspension of deportations to the country, citing the severe risk of persecution, torture, or death faced by returnees. The phrasing, “No one should be returned to a country where they face the threat of persecution, torture, or death” underscores the seriousness of the concern for human rights.
Crucially, the document firmly rejects the prospect of military intervention or external force applied to the situation in Iran. The SPD maintains that any transition towards a secular and democratic order must be organically driven by the Iranian people themselves, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty, peaceful progression and freedom from external influence. This stance attempts to balance a strong condemnation of the Iranian regime’s actions with a recognition of the potential pitfalls of direct intervention, a delicate political tightrope to walk given the escalating tensions surrounding the current protests. Analysts suggest this document represents a significant shift within the SPD, signaling a more assertive approach toward Iran and a willingness to challenge established government policy.
