Iran Envoy to Germany: Era of Exploiting Iran’s Restraint Is Over
Tehran - BORNA - Majid Nili, Iran’s ambassador to Germany, wrote in a post titled “A Few Frank Points to Some European Officials” on the social media platform X: “Over nearly half a century, a record filled with hostile and irresponsible actions against Iran has taken shape: from threats and terrorist acts on Iranian soil, support for and hosting of terrorist elements, to three instances of military aggression (the 1980s, June 2025, and March 2026); from fabricated narratives in the form of false-flag operations and accusations regarding Iran’s peaceful nuclear program, to repeated violations of commitments under the JCPOA and efforts to unlawfully restore the snapback mechanism; and alongside all of these, one-sided support for the Israeli regime and the United States.”
Nili said: “Support for Saddam’s regime in the use of chemical weapons and silence in the face of tragedies such as the martyrdom of elementary school students in the city of Minab during the recent military aggression, as well as attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities and energy infrastructure, are only part of this dark record.”
He continued: “In contrast, Iran has repeatedly demonstrated responsible behavior: restraint, strategic rationality, and even playing a role in ensuring Europe’s security, including in the fight against ISIS, are clear examples of this approach.”
Nili said: “But what was the result of this approach? A miscalculation by some in Europe regarding Iran’s exemplary restraint; a strategic mistake that can neither be denied nor easily forgotten.”
Referring to Iran’s approach toward European countries, the ambassador outlined three clear messages:
First, Iran’s strategic patience has limits. Based on Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, Iran this time stands firmly against any aggressor, from any side, until it makes them regret their actions.
Second, silence in the face of violations of ethics and international law is neither neutrality nor rationality; this path will not guarantee anyone’s security, including Europe.
Third, respect is the cornerstone of any sustainable international relationship. Iran, based on its rich culture, religion, and civilization, responds to respect with respect and to disrespect with the necessary decisive action.
He emphasized that the historical record of relations with European countries such as Germany is an asset for engagement, not a license for disregard. Examples of this mutual trust and respect can be seen in historical documents—one only needs to take a brief look at them.
The Iranian ambassador in Berlin, stating that the choice lies with Europe, said: choosing between adherence to ethics and international law or sitting alongside the aggressor. However, this time, delay in making that choice will be costly, unforgettable, and difficult to compensate.
Nili stressed: “If anyone believes that Iran’s restrained behavior is the same as 47 years ago, they are seriously mistaken. With the destruction of the fundamental principles of ethics and international law, the era of exploiting this exemplary restraint has come to an end.”
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