Germany takes unprecedented step: Iranian consulates closed after execution row

Germany has announced the closure of all three Iranian consulates within its borders in response to the recent execution of German-Iranian dual national Jamshid Sharmahd in Iran. This drastic diplomatic move underscores the deepening strain between Berlin and Tehran as Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the execution as a significant breach of human rights and international norms. Baerbock declared that diplomatic ties between the two nations have reached an all-time low, as Germany decided to allow Iran’s embassy to remain open but severely curtail its diplomatic presence within Germany.

Retaliatory Action Amid Escalating Tensions

The decision to close the Iranian consulates comes after Jamshid Sharmahd, who also held U.S. residency, was executed on charges of terrorism. Iran’s judiciary had accused Sharmahd of plotting attacks and leading a pro-monarchist group that sought to destabilize the Iranian regime. His family, however, maintains that he was merely a spokesperson for a non-violent opposition group, and they accuse Iranian intelligence of abducting him from Dubai in 2020. The German government criticized Iran for conducting a trial that lacked transparency and fairness, with repeated denials of consular access during Sharmahd’s detention.

Foreign Minister Baerbock stated, “We will not accept this massive violation of the rights of a German citizen,” further emphasizing that Sharmahd had not received a fair trial. As a result, Germany expelled two Iranian diplomats earlier this year, escalating the diplomatic standoff. The expulsion and subsequent closure of the consulates signify a series of mounting retaliatory steps by Berlin against Tehran for its actions against dual nationals.

Strained Diplomatic Ties

The diplomatic relationship between Germany and Iran has steadily deteriorated over recent months. Germany has expressed growing frustration over Iran’s crackdown on dissent within its borders, especially amid nationwide anti-government protests that have been met with severe state violence. Sharmahd’s execution is seen as part of a broader campaign by the Iranian authorities to quash opposition voices, particularly those connected to monarchist or other reformist movements that have vocally supported anti-government demonstrations.

Germany has allowed the Iranian embassy in Berlin to remain operational, indicating that Berlin is not seeking a complete diplomatic breakdown but is leveraging its response to send a clear message of condemnation. Germany has joined a broader international chorus calling on Iran to respect the rights of detainees, ensure fair legal proceedings, and halt the execution of political prisoners.

Expert Insights: Escalation with Global Implications

Experts believe Germany’s decision to close Iranian consulates is a significant diplomatic measure, reflecting not only Germany’s displeasure with Iran’s human rights violations but also the wider implications for European-Iranian relations. “The closure of consulates sends a symbolic yet powerful message,” stated a foreign policy expert. “Germany is willing to sacrifice diplomatic convenience to uphold its values regarding human rights and the rule of law.”

Additionally, the closure could have considerable implications for the Iranian diaspora in Germany, which relies on consular services for visas, document processing, and other administrative needs. Analysts warn that this move may provoke retaliatory measures from Tehran, potentially leading to the expulsion of German diplomats in Iran or further restrictions on European nationals within the country.

Backdrop of Protests and Crackdown

Sharmahd’s execution took place against a backdrop of months-long anti-government protests in Iran, which were sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini while in the custody of the country’s morality police. The protests have drawn support from multiple factions, including monarchists and other expatriate groups based in Europe and the United States, who have vocally opposed the regime. Tehran’s response has been a widespread crackdown, with numerous activists arrested, and some facing execution under controversial charges.

Iranian authorities have justified Sharmahd’s execution by accusing him of being involved in the planning of a 2008 mosque bombing, charges his family has denied. International rights groups have also expressed concern about the lack of transparency in Iranian trials, especially in cases involving political prisoners. Germany has strongly condemned the trial as a sham, and Baerbock has called on Iran to reverse its decision and allow Sharmahd a fair appeal.