Berlin, November 06 2023, The Europe Today: Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz has urged people in the country to “protect Jews” after a number of antisemitic incidents were reported in relation to the conflict in the Middle East.
He said it was a matter of civil courage.
“Anyone who attacks Jews in Germany is attacking us all,” Scholz said in an interview with the Mannheimer Morgen newspaper that is due to be published on Monday.
“We will not accept antisemitism. We have crystal-clear laws: It is a criminal offense to burn Israeli flags; It is a criminal offense to cheer the death of innocent people; It is a criminal offense to shout anti-Semitic slogans,” Scholz continued.
Scholz’s comments come amid the backdrop of pro-Palestinian rallies in Germany. Police have banned some of these events on the ground of antisemitism.
German authorities are investigating various cases on suspicion of incitement to hatred.
“The law enforcement authorities have the necessary tools and must use them consistently. My impression is that the police authorities and courts know what to do,” Scholz said.
