Berlin – The German government has issued a strong condemnation of the Iranian regime’s escalating response to nationwide protests, emphasizing the urgent need to halt the violent suppression of dissenting voices. Deputy government spokesman Sebastian Hille, addressing the press in Berlin on Monday, described the situation as “deeply concerning” highlighting the peaceful demonstrations occurring across the country as expressions of a desire for freedom and improved living conditions.
Hille lauded the “remarkable courage” of Iranian citizens facing what he characterized as “disproportionately brutal violence” from security forces, affirming that their resistance deserves “the utmost recognition”. Chancellor Scholz has formally called upon the Iranian leadership to prioritize the protection of its population rather than resorting to threats and forceful measures.
The German government’s condemnation of the violence directed against its own citizens by the Tehran leadership was unequivocal, with Hille asserting that such actions are indicative of weakness, not strength and must cease immediately. This stance reflects a broader European and international discomfort with the increasingly authoritarian tactics employed by the current Iranian administration.
Furthermore, the government reaffirmed its commitment at the EU level to pursue the listing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, a move seen by many as a significant escalation in pressure on the Iranian government. This push underscores a growing sentiment within European capitals to hold Tehran accountable for its actions.
Responding to inquiries from the dts Nachrichtenagentur regarding potential U.S. military intervention, Hille declined to speculate on the matter. Reports in U.S. media previously indicated that President Donald Trump was reportedly assessing several possible military options, although a ground troop deployment was reportedly not under consideration. This deliberate ambiguity from Berlin appears aimed at avoiding escalating rhetoric and maintaining diplomatic channels, while acknowledging the precariousness of the situation.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations paint an increasingly grim picture of the ongoing protests. According to the “Human Rights Activists in Iran” (HRA), confirmed deaths related to the protests, which have now persisted for fifteen days, have risen sharply to a minimum of 544. Simultaneously, the HRA reports that over 10,600 individuals have been arrested, further fueling concerns about the scope and severity of the ongoing crackdown. The escalating toll and sustained repression are placing significant strain on international relations and raising questions about the long-term stability of the Iranian regime.
