Chancellor Friedrich Merz states that the Iranian regime could fall as a result of the violent protests, which have led to brutal reactions from the security forces.

The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the current regime in Iran could be close to its end, in the context of the large-scale protests that began on December 28. Merz emphasized that if the regime remains in power only through violence, it is effectively finished. During a visit to Bengaluru, India, he condemned the actions of the Iranian security forces, describing them as disproportionate and brutal.

The protests, initially sparked by the depreciation of the rial and economic difficulties, have transformed into national demonstrations against the leadership. Human rights activists report that at least 648 people have been killed during these protests, and security forces have used live ammunition and tear gas against the demonstrators.