Berlin: A major Iranian newspaper has issued a threat of "retaliation" against German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, escalating tensions amidst an already volatile geopolitical climate. The threat was published by Tehran's ultraconservative Hamshahri newspaper, which featured Chancellor Merz among 13 international politicians "wanted" for the death of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The publication stated that these politicians would face the "ultimate price," leading to concerns among German politicians and a cautious response from the German government.
According to Deutsche Welle, the list of targeted politicians also includes US President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, among others. The publication depicted all the politicians in orange prison uniforms, evoking imagery common in the United States. This development follows support from many European countries, including Germany, for the US and Israeli actions against Iran since February, which included allowing military flights through their airspace.
After the onset of US and Israeli attacks on Iran in early March, Chancellor Merz commented that the German government shared the relief of many Iranians at the potential end of the current regime. He expressed support for the US and Israeli objectives to end the regime's oppressive practices and its nuclear ambitions. Despite these expectations, the regime remains in power, with Mojtaba Khamenei succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed at the start of the campaign. Mojtaba Khamenei has vowed "retaliation" for his father's death.
The controversial article, which promised that "retaliation is inevitable," was published online by Hamshahri but was not included in its Sunday print edition and was subsequently removed from its website by the beginning of the week. Despite its removal, the threat has prompted concerns from German government officials and opposition parties.
Marc Henrichmann, chairman of the Bundestag oversight committee, warned of potential Iranian intelligence activities in Europe, suggesting that attacks may be planned. German security agencies are particularly wary of "disposable agents" who might be recruited for singular attacks, raising the overall threat level.
Sebastian Fiedler, spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party (SPD), pointed out that the current climate could "stir up extremist groups and mobilize lone actors," though he noted that Chancellor Merz is already under strong security measures, and additional precautions are unnecessary at present.
Green Party politician Omid Nouripour, who is of Iranian descent, emphasized the seriousness of the threat. He stated that past experiences with state-sponsored terrorism from Iran necessitate a cautious approach, labeling the threat against Germany's head of government as hostile.
The German government's response has been notably reserved. At a recent press conference, deputy spokesperson Steffen Meyer acknowledged the death threat but refrained from further comment.
Security experts remain vigilant, with authorities estimating approximately 180 individuals in Germany are potentially associated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards or intelligence services. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution warned that the Iranian intelligence service has long been prepared to engage in activities akin to state terrorism, including threats against individuals and intelligence operations aimed at planning attacks. Despite the weakening of Iran's security forces due to ongoing conflicts, fears persist that Tehran might shift its focus abroad as pressure on the regime decreases.