TEHRAN, Jan 13 — Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has sharply criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for hypocrisy on human rights issues, following Merz’s comments suggesting the Iranian regime is in its “final days and weeks” due to widespread anti-government protests.
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Araghchi described Germany as “perhaps the worst-placed” government to lecture others on human rights, claiming Berlin’s credibility has been “obliterated” by its unwavering support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which he labeled as “genocide” resulting in the deaths of around 70,000 Palestinians.
“When Iran defeats terrorists who kill civilians and police officers, the German chancellor rushes to declare that ‘violence is an expression of weakness’,” Araghchi wrote. “What, then, does Mr Merz have to say about his wholehearted support for the mass murder of 70,000 Palestinians in Gaza?”
Merz, speaking during a visit to India on Tuesday, stated that “when a regime can only maintain power through violence, then it is effectively at its end,” and predicted the Iranian leadership’s collapse amid the protests that began in late December 2025 over economic hardships, including soaring inflation and currency devaluation. The demonstrations have since spread nationwide, with reports of dozens of deaths, thousands of arrests, and a near-total internet blackout.
Araghchi also referenced Merz’s alleged past endorsement of Israel’s June 2025 strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, describing them as Israel performing “dirty work” for Europe.
The Iranian minister further condemned Germany’s silence on the U.S. operation on January 3, 2026, that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, transferring them to U.S. custody amid international controversy.
“Do us all a favor: have some shame. Better yet, Germany should end its unlawful interference in our region, including its support for genocide and terrorism,” Araghchi urged.
Separately, Araghchi criticized the European Parliament’s decision on Monday to ban Iranian diplomats and representatives from its premises in Brussels, Strasbourg, and Luxembourg, in response to the alleged crackdown on protesters. He highlighted what he called double standards, noting that the body had taken no comparable action despite over two years of conflict in Gaza and an ICC arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“Even as Netanyahu is wanted for war crimes by the ICC, he freely flies over European airspace. In contrast, it takes only a few days of violent riots in Iran for the European Parliament to physically ban our diplomats,” Araghchi posted. “People are not stupid. They see what is unfolding with their own eyes.”
He emphasized that Iran does not seek enmity with the EU but would reciprocate any restrictions.
The protests, initially sparked by economic grievances linked to U.S. sanctions on Iran’s oil and banking sectors, have evolved into broader anti-government unrest across all 31 provinces. Iranian authorities have acknowledged legitimate economic concerns and pledged reforms, while characterizing violent elements as foreign-backed “rioters” supported by the U.S. and Israel.
On Monday, nationwide pro-government rallies were held, with thousands gathering in Tehran and other cities to condemn the unrest, denounce foreign interference, and express support for the Islamic Republic.
