Germany's Divided Stance on Iran Protests Exposes Political Hypocrisy
Protests in Iran have sparked strong reactions across Germany's political spectrum. While left-wing and Green politicians have openly backed the demonstrations, critics accuse them of inconsistency—highlighting their vocal stance on Gaza but relative silence on Iran. Meanwhile, conservatives have condemned the Iranian regime's actions but offered little concrete support to protesters.
The debate has extended beyond rhetoric, with calls to halt deportations to Iran gaining traction among public figures and regional authorities. Yet divisions remain over how different causes are treated, from policing to public platforms like the Berlinale film festival.
Since January, left-wing and progressive media have closely covered Iran's protests. Politicians from the SPD and Greens, including Adis Ahmetovic, Marcel Emmerich, and Omid Nouripour, have publicly demanded a stop to deportations to Iran. Their calls have found backing from federal parties, state refugee councils in multiple regions, and organisations like Pro Asyl. Several states—Brandenburg, Rheinland-Pfalz, Saarland, and others—have since paused deportations temporarily.
Yet critics argue that the left's response to Iran contrasts sharply with its approach to Gaza. Some accuse leftist figures, such as Roger Waters, of siding with Tehran's regime, framing its actions as an 'anti-colonial struggle' against the U.S. Others point to disparities in policing: protesters against Gaza's genocide often face harsher treatment than those rallying for Iran. Even public platforms reflect this divide—demonstrations for Iranian human rights at the Berlinale draw support, while Palestinian rights advocacy risks distancing from the festival.
Conservatives, though critical of Iran's regime, have shown little practical solidarity. Germany's government, meanwhile, continues arming Israel but not Iran—despite once being Tehran's largest weapons supplier. The debate has also touched on media influence, with warnings about the 'illusion of truth' effect, where repeated false claims can gain credibility. High-profile figures like Greta Thunberg, usually vocal on global issues, have remained largely quiet on Iran so far.
The protests in Iran have exposed deep divisions in Germany's political and media landscape. Deportation bans now apply in multiple states, reflecting growing pressure from activists and lawmakers. Yet the uneven treatment of different human rights causes—from Gaza to Iran—remains a point of contention, with policing, public platforms, and international policy all under scrutiny.
