Germany’s Merz predicts imminent collapse of Iran’s government

(MENAFN) Germany’s chancellor says Iran’s governing system is nearing collapse, asserting that the country’s leadership is entering its final phase as widespread protests continue, according to reports.

Speaking to journalists during an official visit to India, Friedrich Merz says the Iranian authorities can no longer rely on public legitimacy and are clinging to power through force. He states, “When a regime can only maintain power through violence, it is effectively finished. I assume that we are now witnessing the final days and weeks of this regime.”

Merz expresses hope that the ongoing unrest will lead to a peaceful political transition, arguing that Iran’s leadership has lost its mandate to govern. He adds that Germany is closely coordinating with international partners, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, as the situation develops.

Emphasizing diplomatic coordination, he says, “The foreign ministers are in close contact with each other to ensure that there can be a peaceful transition in Iran to a democratically legitimized government.”

Separately, Germany’s foreign minister signals a tougher stance toward Tehran, stating that Berlin intends to push for expanded punitive measures in response to the authorities’ handling of protests.

During a visit to the United States, Johann Wadephul says Germany is committed to increasing pressure on Iran’s leadership. He declares, “We will use all available measures to impose sanctions on this regime.” He further explains, “This includes listing it under the EU's terror sanctions regime – which we cannot yet implement because it requires unanimity – but we remain committed to achieving this.”

German officials indicate that diplomatic efforts and sanctions coordination with international partners will continue as unrest persists inside Iran, according to reports.

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