The international community is reacting with growing distance to the domestic political developments in the Islamic Republic of Iran. As the leadership of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) announced, the original invitation to Iranian government representatives for the meeting taking place next month has been withdrawn. The reason for this is the violent action by state security forces against a protest movement that has been ongoing since the end of December 2025. The German Foreign Office had previously explicitly advised against Tehran's participation, as dialogue under the current conditions was considered inappropriate.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has sharpened his rhetoric, threatening the Iranian leadership with decisive action should the regime report executed protestors. Although the White House recently backed away from immediate military threats, it increased pressure through extensive sanctions. Human rights organizations report thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of arrests since the beginning of the unrest, which was triggered by the disastrous economic situation and developed into an uprising against the political system. Solidarity rallies took place in Rome and other European cities to support the Iranian civil society's demands for reforms.
At the same time, the situation in northern Syria is escalating. In the region around Aleppo, thousands of people are fleeing renewed military clashes between government troops and Kurdish alliances. The fighting is particularly focused on districts like Sheikh Maqsoud. Humanitarian organizations warn of a catastrophe, as the displaced persons have little access to emergency shelters, food, or medical care in wintry temperatures. The latest escalation highlights the fragile security situation in Syria, where political agreements to integrate local forces into state structures continue to stagnate.
