Macron, Starmer, and Merz Urge Restraint Amid Violence Against Iranian Protesters

Leaders from France, the United Kingdom, and Germany released a joint statement on Friday expressing serious concerns over the violence directed at protesters in Iran. They called on Iranian authorities to exercise restraint and refrain from employing lethal force.

The statement, issued by French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, emphasized:
"We are profoundly troubled by reports of violence perpetrated by Iranian security forces and strongly condemn the killing of protesters. We urge Iranian authorities to show restraint."

This appeal follows two weeks of widespread demonstrations in Iran, during which security forces reportedly used excessive force, resulting in multiple casualties.

In related developments, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, called for a prompt, independent, and transparent investigation into the deaths of protesters. He cautioned against internet shutdowns that could obstruct monitoring of the situation, stressing the necessity of holding accountable those responsible for human rights violations in accordance with international standards.