In view of the increasingly critical state of affairs in Iran, Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier issued in Berlin today (21 June) the following statement:

“One week after the elections Iran now stands at a crossroads. Either the current situation can be defused through dialogue between all political forces or it will continue to escalate.

I appeal to the authorities in Tehran to do everything possible to avoid the situation escalating even further. The use of force against demonstrators is just as unacceptable as the continuing restrictions on press coverage.

The conflict over the presidential elections must be settled as soon as possible. This means there must be a serious investigation of the issues raised with regard to the conduct and outcome of the elections.”

Read more on Germany's bilateral relations to Iran: