Germany Confronts Rising Antisemitism Two Years After Hamas Attack Amid Political and Social Challenges
Germany confronts rising antisemitism two years after the Hamas attack, balancing government solidarity with Jews and complex political stances on Israel.
- • Antisemitic incidents have significantly increased in Germany since the October 7 Hamas attack two years ago.
- • German government pledges stronger legal measures and increased security to protect Jewish people.
- • SPD politician Siemtje Möller calls for all antisemitic attacks to be criminally prosecuted.
- • Chancellor Friedrich Merz expresses solidarity with Israel but criticizes its military actions, reflecting a shift in German public opinion.
Key details
On the second anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attack, Germany is grappling with a significant rise in antisemitism, manifesting in increased hate crimes and public violence against Jewish people, especially during demonstrations. According to Alexander Dobrindt, writing for the Jüdische Allgemeine, this massacre marked the largest attack on Jews since the Holocaust and has left many Jewish individuals, including students, feeling unsafe to express their identity publicly. Dobrindt emphasizes the German government's commitment to combating antisemitism through stronger legal measures, increased police funding, and conveying unambiguous solidarity with the Jewish community.
SPD member Siemtje Möller reinforced this stance in an interview, stating that attacks on Jews, regardless of origin, must be treated as criminal acts. Her remarks underscore the urgency to protect Jews amid a surge in antisemitic hostility, particularly at public demonstrations.
Political complexities further cloud the atmosphere. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed Germany's lasting solidarity with Israel, which is historically anchored in the nation’s responsibility. However, Merz also voiced disapproval of Israel's military conduct in Gaza, citing violations of international law and reflecting a public sentiment where 63% of Germans view Israel's military actions as excessive. This public opinion shift has fueled protests and called into question Germany's approach to Israel, with critics labeling some Israeli actions as genocidal and pushing for a reassessment of Germany's "Staatsräson" or constitutional duty towards Israel's security.
The rise in antisemitism is dire, with authorities having arrested suspected terrorists targeting Jewish institutions. Merz acknowledged the shame in seeing antisemitism resurge in Germany after decades of decline. Dobrindt called for actions beyond words, urging that Germany’s historic friendship with Israel serve as a foundation for contemporary protection of Jewish life.
The confluence of increased antisemitic incidents, shifting public opinion on Israel, and governmental efforts to counter hate crimes underscores the multifaceted challenges Germany faces. The government remains determined to safeguard Jewish communities while navigating the complex political landscape inherent in its Israel policy.
In this precarious environment, the commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring Jewish safety in Germany continues to be a critical government priority, with ongoing legal and security measures planned to stem the tide of hate and violence.