Chancellor Merz Sounds Alarm on Rising Antisemitism, Vows to Protect Jewish Life in Germany

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has issued a stark warning about the safety of Jewish communities in Germany, expressing grave concern over what he describes as an alarming rise in antisemitism, particularly in Berlin. Speaking publicly, Merz stated that Jewish life in Germany is no longer secure, emphasizing the urgent need for political and societal action to combat this dangerous trend.

Merz criticized the disturbing increase in openly radical antisemitism in Berlin, where hateful sentiments are sometimes met with applause. He expressed deep distress over the insufficient response from parts of German society and called on the Social Democrats (SPD) and Greens to clearly address this crisis. He underscored that the insecurity faced by Jewish citizens represents a significant burden that all democratic parties must confront.

Echoing these concerns, Josef Schuster, President of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, highlighted antisemitic provocations during recent election campaigns, notably targeting the Left Party for crossing red lines with antisemitic remarks.

Merz reaffirmed his commitment, representing the CDU, to do everything possible to ensure the safety of Jewish life in Germany and Berlin's capital. He addressed his message not only to Jewish communities in Berlin but also to Jewish populations worldwide, calling the rise of public antisemitism in Berlin a national disgrace.

This resurgence of antisemitism has raised alarm bells in political and civil society circles, highlighting an urgent need for a unified and strong response to safeguard Germany’s Jewish citizens and uphold democratic values.