Anti-Israel Demonstration in Berlin Sparks Outrage Amid Holocaust Remembrance

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On February 2, 2025, a demonstration in Berlin drew attention for its inflammatory rhetoric, coinciding with a global commemoration of Holocaust victims. The protest began with approximately 100 participants and eventually swelled to around 280, all rallying under the slogan "Hands off Westbank." Reports indicate that some demonstrators shouted alarming calls for violence against Jews, including exhortations to "shoot Jews" or hand them over to Hamas, according to observers.

The police monitored the situation but did not disperse the event, citing language barriers and the loudness of the gathering as challenges in assessing the legality of the chants. Footage from the event is currently under review by state security, as authorities explore potential violations relating to terrorist organization propaganda.

Among the demonstrators was Helmi Barbakh, known for his antisemitic sentiments and alleged connections to a Gaza clan. He has a history of inflammatory actions, including an earlier assault on a public official. The incident has prompted discussions on the rising anti-Jewish sentiment in Germany, particularly in light of recent unrest related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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