Image Credits: WFLA
Iran’s Foreign Ministry summoned the German ambassador on Wednesday to formally protest against the bans imposed on the Iran-linked Islamic Center of Hamburg (IZH) and its subsidiaries. The ministry criticized the actions as “an evident case of Islamophobia and a breach of human rights.”
The diplomatic action follows recent German government decisions to shut down the IZH and its affiliated entities, citing concerns over the promotion of radical Islamist ideologies. The German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) has alleged that the IZH has been instrumental in fostering extremist activities and has connections with Iran’s government, including its intelligence apparatus.
In response, Iran’s Foreign Ministry vehemently rejected these accusations. The ministry accused the German government of yielding to anti-Islamic sentiment and perpetuating unfounded allegations against Iranian institutions.
The IZH, established in 1965, has been one of Europe’s prominent Shia religious and cultural centres, offering various educational and social services to the Muslim community in Hamburg and beyond. Iranian officials argue that the centre has played a crucial role in promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding.
The controversy comes at a time of heightened tensions between Iran and several Western nations, primarily due to the ongoing disputes over Iran’s nuclear program and its regional activities. The diplomatic friction has been exacerbated by recent protests in Iran and subsequent crackdowns, which have drawn widespread international criticism and led to additional sanctions from the European Union and the United States.
In Germany, the decision to ban the IZH has sparked a mixed reaction. Supporters argue that it is a necessary step to curb extremism and protect national security. Critics, however, contend that the move unfairly targets the Muslim community and could exacerbate social divisions. German officials have defended the ban, asserting that it is based on concrete evidence of the IZH’s involvement in activities contrary to democratic values and public safety.
In their meeting with the German ambassador, Iranian officials called for an immediate reversal of the bans and demanded assurances for the protection of the rights of Muslim communities in Germany. They emphasized the importance of respecting religious diversity and cautioned against policies that could inflame inter-religious tensions.