Berlin’s Left Party leadership is advocating for the display of the Palestinian flag alongside the Israeli flag at public buildings, including the iconic Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall).
Co-chair Kerstin Wolter, in statements to the Tagesspiegel newspaper, expressed the view that such a gesture would serve as a symbolic demonstration of empathy for all those suffering as a result of the ongoing conflict. She indicated that currently, the representation of the situation lacks a comprehensive perspective that acknowledges the experiences of all affected parties.
Previously, the Left Party’s parliamentary group in Berlin-Mitte had called for the Israeli flag to be flown at public buildings. This request, submitted to the district council, cited respect for Palestinian Berliners and solidarity with the civilian population in Gaza and Palestine, as rationale.
The city’s governing mayor, Kai Wegner of the CDU, firmly rejected this proposal, recommending that the Left Party address concerns regarding its stance on antisemitism.
While Wolter acknowledges the previous call to lower the Israeli flag, she affirmed support for its display if it symbolizes the release of hostages held by Hamas. She also noted that, given the alleged actions of the Israeli government in Gaza, some Berlin residents may perceive the mayor’s position as biased.
Left Party co-chair Maximilian Schirmer emphasized that the party maintains a clear stance recognizing Israel’s right to exist and condemns the Hamas attack. He added that demonstrating concern for the suffering in Gaza does not contradict this position. The party, he stated, is committed to applying a consistent standard when addressing human rights violations.