German-Iran Tensions Escalate, German Government Warns of Increased Threat to Jewish Life in Germany
Germany’s Federal Government has taken measures to strengthen the security of Jewish and Israeli institutions in the country, following a recent escalation in tensions between Israel and Iran. The country’s Antisemitism Commissioner, Felix Klein, has warned of an increased threat to Jewish life in Germany, citing a historical pattern of rising anti-Semitic sentiments in the country whenever conflicts in the Middle East intensify.
According to Klein, the past has shown that whenever tensions in the Middle East increase, a mechanism is triggered, leading to the collective blame of the Jewish population in Germany for the actions of the Israeli government. He emphasized the need to recognize and break this anti-Semitic automatism, as it ultimately affects the entire society.
Klein welcomed the swift action of the German government, which has already decided to increase the protection of Jewish and Israeli institutions in the country. He also expressed relief at the close and direct connections between security authorities, such as state criminal offices and the domestic intelligence agency and Jewish communities, which he believes are crucial in ensuring the safety of these institutions.
Smaller communities in rural areas, as well as soft targets like Jewish day-care centers, are particularly in need of support to enhance their security, Klein stressed.