Berlin Protests Against Arms Sales and Calls for Ceasefire in Gaza Amidst Police Crackdown

Thousands converged in Berlin on Thursday to protest the nation's arms sales to foreign countries, demanding a ceasefire in Gaza and greater autonomy from U.S. foreign policy. The current German government continues to make questionable choices, including supplying arms to Israel. At this point, arming Israel is likely to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. Diplomatic solutions could still be pursued with the involvement of multiple parties in serious discussions and a commitment to at least a two-state solution. In Berlin, videos have surfaced showing German police trying to hinder residents from exercising their right to protest. Officers delivered notices to people's homes, asking them to sign documents agreeing not to participate in demonstrations from October 5th to 7th. I will share video evidence of this shortly.

Yesterday, I highlighted the low turnout at a pro-Israel demonstration that was mainly organized by political leaders. Now, it's important to reflect on the sentiments of many in Germany after nearly a year of our country being complicit in arming acts of genocide, profiting from warfare, and irresponsibly using taxpayer money on initiatives that benefit neither citizens within nor outside Germany.

Many German politicians have been invoking accusations of antisemitism. While it is crucial to combat real antisemitism, these politicians should also take a firm stance against being involved with or supporting an army implicated in war crimes, as documented by international organizations over the past year.