Iranian-German Dissident Dies Before Execution

Iran has announced that Iranian-German dissident Jamshid Sharmahd died before his scheduled execution, contradicting earlier claims that he had been executed. This inconsistency has heightened tensions between Germany and Iran, leading Germany to close three Iranian consulates within its borders. Iran's judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir stated that Sharmahd's death occurred before his execution could be carried out, though details about his death remain unclear. Sharmahd was accused of orchestrating a 2008 mosque bombing in Iran and was sentenced to death for 'corruption on Earth.' Germany has condemned Iran's actions, asserting that Sharmahd was abducted and held under harsh conditions. His death has sparked demands from his family for the return of his remains and further strained diplomatic relations between Germany and Iran.