German Chancellor Friedrich Merz believes the regime in Iran is very close to its end, after two weeks of deadly protests over the dire state of the economy rocked the clerical leadership in what is the biggest test of its grip on power since the 1979 Islamic revolution.
“If a regime can only stay in power through violence, then it is effectively finished. I assume that we are now witnessing the final days and weeks of this regime,” Merz told journalists on Tuesday during his visit to India, Politico reported. “I hope there is a way to end this conflict peacefully. The mullah regime has to recognize that as well.”
On Monday, the Iranian foreign minister claimed the regime had reestablished full control of security in the country, but the U.S. is weighing its options and could yet strike Tehran in support of the protests. President Donald Trump said Tehran wants to negotiate and officials are setting up a meeting.
Iranian activists say hundreds of protesters have been killed by the regime’s security forces in a brutal crackdown, with thousands more detained.
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.
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