Berlin Jews voice mixed views on the Left Party amid antisemitism debate
Jewish residents and activists in Berlin expressed a range of opinions on the city’s Linkspartei, questioning accusations of antisemitism while highlighting broader concerns.
In a series of interviews, Berlin Jews such as Vered Berman, Ron Dekel, Noy Katsman, Sigmount A. Königsberg, Nimrod Flaschenberg and DJ Channah shared their perspectives on the Linkspartei’s handling of antisemitism. Berman sees the controversy as a conservative ploy and supports left-wing social policies, while Dekel warns that antisemitic elements are tolerated within the party. Katsman, an Israeli trans activist, stresses the importance of dialogue and rejects blanket cancellations.
Königsberg criticises the party’s selective focus on Israel and calls for a 360-degree approach to hate. Flaschenberg argues the antisemitism charge is used to block a left-wing coalition, and Channah calls for concrete measures against extremist rhetoric at party events. Across the board, respondents emphasize that antisemitism exists across the political spectrum and that effective policies, not partisan blame, are needed.
How this story developed
- Sep 21 Elif Eralp emerges as Die Linke's high-profile mayoral candidate in Berlin
- Sep 21 The Greens announced they will seek a red‑green‑red coalition with the Left and SPD.
- Sep 23 SPD and Greens require Die Linke to demonstrate anti‑antisemitism safeguards before coalition talks can proceed.
- Sep 24 The Israeli ambassador warned of an “immediate existential threat” to Berlin’s Jewish community over alleged antisemitism in the party.
- Sep 27 SPD and Greens issued a joint warning demanding Die Linke reject antisemitism and clan crime before coalition talks proceed.
Related stories
12 in this thread