Following the execution of Jamshid Sharmahd, a dual German-Iranian citizen, Germany has taken the unprecedented step of recalling its ambassador from Tehran. Sharmahd, who led the pro-monarchist group Tondar, was accused by Iran of orchestrating a 2008 bombing in Shiraz that killed 14 people and injured over 200 others. Germany, along with several international human rights groups, has denounced the execution and raised concerns over the legitimacy of Sharmahd’s trial, claiming he was denied due process and subjected to harsh detention conditions.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the execution as a “blatant disregard for human rights” and emphasized that Germany “would not stand by” as its citizens face unjust treatment abroad. The German government has faced increasing pressure domestically to act following Sharmahd’s detainment in 2020 and subsequent death sentence in 2023. His family and supporters have maintained his innocence, arguing that he was a peaceful advocate for democratic change in Iran.
Sharmahd’s case is part of a troubling pattern involving Iran’s execution of dual nationals, which has heightened calls for stronger international action and accountability. Human rights groups and various Western governments are advocating for more than diplomatic rebukes, urging harsher sanctions or coordinated actions against Iran.
