Merz: Anti-Israel rhetoric used increasingly to stoke hatred against Jews | DW News

Rising Anti-Semitism in Germany

• 💡 Chancellor Merz stated that criticism of Israel is increasingly used as a pretext for stoking hatred against Jews in Germany.
• 📌 Josef Schuster, President of the Central Council of Jews, highlighted that anti-Semitism is on the rise since the Hamas terror attacks and subsequent Israeli military operations.
• ⚠️ A dangerous mix of right-wing, left-wing, and Islamistic anti-Semitism is now present in Germany.

German Support for Israel and Jewish Community

• ✅ Chancellor Merz affirmed Germany's unwavering commitment to the existence and security of the state of Israel as a non-negotiable foundation.
• 🤝 Merz also promised his government would work tirelessly for the "uniquely precious friendship" with Israel.
• 🔑 Schuster urged the German government to continue unconditionally supporting Israel, despite international pressure regarding its conduct in Gaza.

Impact on German Jews

• 🧠 Many Jews in Germany do not feel safe anymore, with a survey showing 70% of Jewish communities report feeling unsafe and observed.
• 📈 Anti-Semitism has "eaten into the middle of society" since 2023, profoundly changing the mood for the tiny minority of 200,000 Jews.
• 🚫 Schuster clarified that German Jews are not responsible for the actions of the Israeli government, specifically the Netanyahu administration.

Call to Action Against Hatred

• 📣 Chancellor Merz appealed to every German citizen to fight against anti-Semitism, emphasizing it's not solely a government responsibility.
• 🎯 The goal is to ensure Jews can live in Germany and to integrate them into German society.
• ✨ Despite fears, Schuster noted that normal, joyful Jewish life is still possible outside of big cities.