European efforts to launch a barter-based trade conduit with Iran that would help offset the effects of U.S. sanctions on Tehran suffered a setback when its designated head bowed out at the last minute.
Bernd Erbel, a 72-year-old former German ambassador to Tehran, told the foreign ministry in Berlin this week that he would not be available to take over the role as Instex chief for “personal reasons”, a ministry spokeswoman said on Friday.
Erbel’s decision follows a report in German tabloid Bild drew attention to a YouTube interview in which Erbel voiced criticism of Israel and its role in the Middle East and showed understanding for Iran’s ambitions to develop a ballistic missile program.
The Instex plan is part of efforts by France, Britain and Germany over recent months to salvage a nuclear accord between Iran and major powers.