German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on Tuesday that Iran’s regime is living out its “last days,” as international pressure mounts on the Islamic Republic following its crackdown on protests which has reportedly left hundreds killed.
“When a regime can only hold on to power through violence, then it is effectively finished,” Merz told reporters during a visit to Bengaluru, India. “I believe that we are now witnessing the last days and weeks of this regime.”
Merz asserted that Iran’s leaders lack “legitimacy” as they were not elected by the people, who are now “rising up.” He added, “I hope that there is a way to end this conflict peacefully.”
He also noted that Berlin is in contact with the United States and other European governments to ensure “that there can be a peaceful transition to a democratic government in Iran.”
The nationwide protests, which began over economic grievances, have become one of the most significant challenges to the theocratic system that has governed Iran since the 1979 revolution.
According to a rights group, the crackdown on these protests has resulted in at least 600 people being killed.
