As nationwide protests in Iran enter their twelfth day, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has strongly criticized the Iranian regime’s use of excessive force against demonstrators.
Kabul 24: The protests, which erupted in late December 2025 amid a severe economic crisis—including skyrocketing inflation, the collapse of the rial, and widespread livelihood hardships—have rapidly spread across multiple cities, marking one of the largest waves of unrest since the 2022 Mahsa Amini movement.On Thursday, Wadephul posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter): “For days, people in Iran have taken to the streets.
Peacefully expressing opinions is their right. Therefore, I condemn the excessive use of violence against peaceful demonstrators and call on the Iranian authorities to adhere to their international obligations.” This statement from Wadephul, who has served as Germany’s Foreign Minister since May 2025, underscores Berlin’s deep concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran.
The ongoing demonstrations began on December 28, 2025, initially driven by economic grievances but quickly evolving into broader anti-government chants, including calls for political change.
Reports from human rights organizations and international media indicate dozens killed, hundreds injured, and thousands arrested. Security forces have reportedly employed tear gas, live ammunition, and even raided hospitals to detain wounded protesters. Cities such as Tehran, Abadan, Ilam, and various Kurdish regions have seen widespread strikes in markets and large-scale marches.Human rights groups like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have labeled these actions as gross violations of international law. Wadephul’s condemnation aligns with Germany’s consistent emphasis on human rights in its foreign policy.
Previously, German officials, including parliamentary leaders, have supported Iranian protesters and advocated for additional sanctions against those responsible for repression.This response from Germany is part of a broader international outcry, with condemnations also coming from other European nations, the United States, and the United Nations.
Iranian officials, in turn, have accused protesters of links to foreign adversaries and justified the crackdown as necessary for maintaining order.Ultimately, Wadephul’s words serve not only as a denunciation of violence but also as a reminder of Iran’s commitments under international human rights conventions.
For Iranians risking their lives to demand basic freedoms, better living conditions, and accountability, such voices from the global community offer hope that sustained pressure might compel the regime to address peaceful demands rather than suppress them.
