German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has issued a assessment of Iran’s political situation, stating that Iran leadership is in its final days and weeks amid widespread nationwide protests.
In remarks made on January 13, 2026, during an official visit to India—Merz commented on the escalating unrest in Iran. Speaking to reporters, he said: “I assume that we are now witnessing the final days and weeks of this regime. If a regime can only stay in power through violence, then it is effectively finished. It has no electoral legitimacy, and the population is rising up. We call on the Iranian leadership to protect its population rather than threaten it. The regime’s violence against its own people is not a sign of strength, but of weakness. It must end immediately.”
Merz’s highlighted the lack of electoral legitimacy and the shift in public sentiment, where demonstrators have increasingly called for regime change beyond initial economic complaints.
The protests in Iran began in late December 2025, initially triggered by severe economic pressures, including a dramatic plunge in the value of the rial currency and rampant inflation that severely impacted daily life and commerce, such as in Tehran’s central bazaar. Demonstrations quickly spread across all 31 provinces, evolving into broader anti-government actions. Protesters have reportedly denounced regime leaders, targeted symbols of authority, and demanded fundamental political change, marking one of the most significant internal challenges to the Islamic Republic in recent years.
The Iranian authorities have responded with a heavy crackdown, including live ammunition use by security forces, mass arrests, and a nationwide internet blackout that has limited information flow. Reports indicate a high death toll—estimates from various sources, including Iranian officials acknowledging significant casualties and activists citing figures in the thousands—along with thousands detained. The regime has attributed violence to external “terrorists” and defended its actions, while pro-government rallies have also occurred in support of the leadership.
Merz’s comments come at a time of heightened international attention on Iran. The protests coincide with increased external pressures, including U.S. actions under President Donald Trump, such as tariffs on entities doing business with Iran and statements urging continued protests with indications of potential support. European governments, including Germany, have been in contact with allies like the United States on the situation, and some have summoned Iranian ambassadors over the crackdown. Merz noted Germany’s coordination with the U.S. and other European partners, while urging an immediate end to violence against protesters and expressing hope for a peaceful resolution.
Iran’s Foreign Minister has criticized Merz’s remarks as interference, accusing Germany of double standards. The statements from the German chancellor, delivered abroad, reflect growing Western concern over the humanitarian impact of the unrest and the sustainability of the current Iranian leadership amid domestic and geopolitical strains.
