German Chancellor: The days of the Iranian regime are numbered amid Trump's threats
In fiery remarks reflecting a radical shift in the European stance towards Tehran, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz asserted that the regime's days in Iran are numbered, indicating that the Iranian government has lost its justifications for remaining in power and now relies solely on repression.
These remarks came during a press conference held by Mertz on Wednesday, alongside Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bologan, where he painted a bleak picture of the future of the leadership in Tehran. Mertz stated unequivocally: “A regime that can only remain in power through sheer violence and terror against its own people has its days numbered.” He added, in a resolute tone, that the matter might be “only a matter of weeks,” emphasizing that this regime “has no legitimacy to rule.”.
Context of US threats and maximum pressure
The German chancellor's remarks coincide with an unprecedented escalation by US President Donald Trump, who has threatened direct military intervention in the Islamic Republic, warning Tehran that time is running out. This alignment in rhetoric between Berlin and Washington reflects a convergence of transatlantic views on the need to deal firmly with the Iranian issue, both regarding its nuclear program and its regional influence, placing Tehran under the most intense dual diplomatic and military pressure in decades.
Chinese warnings about the unknown
Conversely, on the other side of the international scene, China was quick to warn against the consequences of any military action. China's ambassador to the United Nations, Fu Cong, cautioned the Security Council against sliding into a "military adventure" in the Middle East. He reiterated China's firm stance that "the use of force cannot solve problems, and any military adventure will only push the region into the abyss of the unknown," clearly alluding to the economic and security risks that could result from a large-scale conflict.
Background of the crisis and erosion of legitimacy
The German chancellor's remarks about the loss of legitimacy are based on a series of internal crises that have plagued Iran in recent years. The country has witnessed widespread protests, met with harsh security crackdowns, which have deepened the divide between the regime and the Iranian people. The country is also suffering from a crippling economic crisis as a result of international sanctions and mismanagement, making reliance on security forces the cornerstone of the regime's survival—a situation Merz described as "pure violence.".
Expected regional and international repercussions
This escalation carries serious implications for the stability of the Middle East. The collapse of the regime or the outbreak of military confrontation could lead to profound geopolitical shifts, directly impacting global energy markets and the security of waterways. Furthermore, Mertz's statements indicate that Europe, which has long advocated dialogue and diplomacy with Tehran, is beginning to adopt a more assertive approach, further tightening the noose around Tehran and reducing its options for political maneuvering in the coming period.
