Iran Closes German-Linked Branches Over Fraud Allegations

Iran's judiciary has closed two branches of organizations linked to Germany due to accusations of illegal activities and financial fraud. The decision follows a German ban on an Islamic center in Hamburg, accused of pursuing radical Islamist goals. Investigations into other Germany-affiliated centers are ongoing.

Iran's judiciary has shut down two branches connected to Germany, alleging illegal activities and financial fraud, according to Mizan news agency on Tuesday. The closures come in the wake of Germany's ban on an Islamic center in Hamburg for alleged radical Islamist pursuits.

Mizan released photos showing security forces taking down the banner of the German Language Institute of Tehran, affiliated with the German embassy. The agency also noted ongoing investigations into other Germany-affiliated centers.

In July, Germany prohibited the Islamic Centre Hamburg (IZH) and its subsidiaries for aiming to spread radical Islamist ideals. The German Interior Ministry accused IZH of operating as a direct proxy for Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, intending to orchestrate an Islamic revolution in Germany. This move led Iran to summon the German ambassador in Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies.)