German chancellor’s stance ‘provocative and undiplomatic’: Iran

• 

Iran's Foreign Ministry bashed the German chancellor's recent anti-Islamic Republic position, as well as his recent comments in support of western-instigated demonstrations in Iran, as "meddlesome, inflammatory, and undiplomatic."

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nasser Kanani’s remarks came after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz denounced the Iranian government for what he called a "brutal crackdown" on violent riots following the death in September of a young Iranian woman.

Kanani affirmed that so-called human rights advocates exploited human rights as a "weapon for political games" by supporting harsh sanctions imposed on Iran following the US exit from the nuclear deal, while remaining mute on ISIS terror attacks-- the most recent of which being the Shiraz terrorist attack.

On October 26, an armed terrorist entered the shrine at approximately 5:45 p.m. local time (14:15 GMT) a little before evening prayers, and by opening fire, killed 15 pilgrims, a woman, and two children in cold blood, leaving at least 40 others wounded.

The Islamic Republic's will is to oppose oppression and defend the downtrodden in accordance with the fundamental principles of human rights, the top Iranian figures stated.

Germany takes "selective" approach to Israeli crimes against Palestinians

However, Kanani claims that Germany, although portraying itself as a protector of human rights, avoids its international responsibilities to respect countries' sovereignty and provides asylum to terrorist and separatist groups opposed to Iran.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the top Iranian official also chastised Germany for taking a "selective and dual approach" to Israeli crimes against Palestinians.

Kanani urged German officials to restore rationality to the atmosphere of cooperation and avoid further deterioration in bilateral relations with Iran, emphasizing that respect and mutual interests are the only way to long-term cooperation.

This comes just two days after Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian tweeted that “provocative, interventionist and undiplomatic stances don't signal sophistication and wisdom”, and that “undermining old ties has long-term consequences”.

Addressing his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock, Amir-Abdollahian tersely stated that “Germany can choose engagement to address shared challenges-or confrontation”.

He has also warned that Iran’s response will be proportionate and firm.

A spokesperson from Germany's Foreign Office said earlier this month that discussions are being held in the EU for the elaboration of a new package of sanctions against Iran over the riots taking place in the country.