Berlin Jews debate whether antisemitism threatens from the left or the right

In a recent discussion, Berlin-based Jewish entrepreneur Milena Glimbovski and musician Ben Salomo voiced alarm over an increase in antisemitism since the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. Glimbovski, who has begun speaking publicly about her Jewish identity, argues that accusations of antisemitism are being used to undermine the left, yet she worries more about the right-wing surge, noting the surprise election of an AfD state parliamentary president.

Salomo, who still addresses schools about Judaism, says the conflict has erased solidarity from the majority and that the left-wing party feels to him like the most antisemitic in the nation. Both stress the need for dialogue and collective resistance against extremist forces, warning that unchecked right-wing gains could reshape future elections. They each signed an open letter rejecting claims that the left is uniquely antisemitic and calling for a broader coalition against hate.