In the ongoing discussion about the results of the Berlin House of Representatives election, historian and anti-semitism researcher Wolfgang Benz has chosen to back the Left Party. Speaking to the “Tagesspiegel”, Benz noted that the party, particularly in the Neukölln district, has a substantial number of Palestinians and Muslims who frequently use highly critical language against the State of Israel.
At a recent campaign event for Die Linke in Neukölln, slogans such as “Death to the IDF” (Death to the Israeli Army) were reportedly heard. Regarding this, Benz argued that such rhetoric does not constitute anti-semitism or hostility toward Jews, but rather a political antagonism directed at the occupying power, Israel. Consequently, he concluded that the Left Party itself is not antisemitic.
Previously, Jewish organizations, such as the Central Council of Jews, had issued warnings and declared they would not be part of a coalition with the party, citing fears for their safety. Benz asserted that the safety of Jews in Berlin is “no longer threatened by the Left Party.” Furthermore, he stated that no minority is as well protected by the police as is the Jewish community. He questioned the premise of insecurity, asking, “If Jewish life in Berlin were so unsafe, why would so many Jews prefer to live here rather than in Israel?”
Nevertheless, Benz insisted that Die Linke must ensure that such behavior is not tolerated in any single case and must take decisive action. He added that the party leadership must prioritize either removing this segment of its electorate or confronting them firmly.
