Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck has strongly condemned anti-Semitism in Germany in its various forms. “Anti-Semitism should not be tolerated in any form, in any form. The extent of the Islamist demonstrations in Berlin and other cities in Germany is unacceptable and needs a tough political response,” said the Green Party politician and economics minister in a video released by his ministry on Wednesday on X (formerly Twitter).
An answer is also needed from the Muslim associations in Germany, said Habeck. Some clearly distanced themselves from the actions of Hamas and anti-Semitism. “But not all of them, and some are too hesitant and I think overall too few.”
Muslims living in Germany have a right to be protected from right-wing extremist violence. “And they have to do the same now when Jews are attacked,” said Habeck. They must clearly distance themselves from anti-Semitism in order not to undermine their own claim to tolerance. “There is no place for religious intolerance in Germany.”
Burning Israeli flags is a criminal offense, as is praising Hamas’ actions. “Anyone who is German will have to answer for this in court; anyone who is not German will also risk their residence status. Anyone who does not yet have a residence permit provides a reason to be deported.”
Islamist anti-Semitism should not obscure the fact that there is also entrenched anti-Semitism in Germany, even if right-wing extremists are now holding back for tactical reasons in order to be able to incite hatred against Muslims, said Habeck.
“I am also concerned about anti-Semitism in parts of the political left, and unfortunately also among young activists.” Anti-colonialism should not lead to anti-Semitism. The death and suffering that is coming to the people in the Gaza Strip is terrible. “However, this cannot legitimize systematic violence against Jews.” Against the background of Hamas’ actions, it is a “reversal of the facts” to portray Hamas as a freedom movement, said Habeck.
