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In Austria's parliamentary elections on September 29, 2024, the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) led by Herbert Kickl secured approximately 29% of the vote, marking a historic first for a far-right party in post-war Austria. The ruling People's Party (ÖVP) followed closely with 26%, while the Social Democrats (SPÖ) received their worst result ever at 20%. Coalition-building remains uncertain.
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Germany has condemned the execution of Jamshid Sharmahd, a German-Iranian dual national, by Iran. The German government has recalled its ambassador and closed multiple consulates in response to the execution, which has sparked outrage and calls for accountability from both German officials and human rights organizations.
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Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition government has collapsed following the dismissal of Finance Minister Christian Lindner, leading to a loss of parliamentary majority. This political upheaval comes amid economic struggles and declining public support, with early elections likely to be scheduled for March 2025, significantly ahead of the planned September elections.