CDU Celebrates Action Against IZH: "Progress Towards Ban"
The CDU in Hamburg's parliament is praising the nationwide raids on the Islamic Center Hamburg (IZH) and related institutions. According to group leader Dennis Thering, "This move is a significant stride in the right direction for the long-demanded ban on the IZH, which we've advocated for years." He criticized the SPD and Greens for previously hindering closure initiatives, lamenting that it took a Hamas terror attack on Israel to catalyze actions. Thering demands an immediate ban and closure of the IZH, citing the community's importance for citizenship, peace, and security.
A joint call for IZH closure was made recently by the SPD, Greens, CDU, and two FDP parliament members in Hamburg. The Left Party and AfD also advocate for closing the center.
Discussions regarding extremism within IZH have ignited since the raids, and Thering believes they may pave the way for an immediate ban and closure of the IZH.
Background Information
The IZH and Blue Mosque have been temporarily shut down since July 2023 years, following investigations by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. The ban stemmed from allegations that IZH supported terror group Hezbollah, propagated aggressive antisemitism, and aimed to spread the Iranian Islamic Revolution to Europe.
Current Ban Status
- Legal Proceedings: The IZH is challenging the ban in court, with hearings scheduled for the next two years. During this time, the building remains idle under federal maintenance.
- Investigations and Seizures: In November 2023, policing operations included raids on 55 properties nationwide, resulting in the seizure of large amounts of data. After concluding its investigation, it found that the IZH supported Hezbollah and advocated antisemitism.
Political Perspectives
- CDU and CSU: These parties have relentlessly advocated for the IZH closure, viewing it as a threat to Germany's democratic system. They have introduced federal legislation to achieve this goal.
- Social Democratic Party (SPD): The SPD, currently in charge of the ministry, faces criticism for its handling of Iranian influence in Germany. The party's future leadership is uncertain following upcoming parliamentary elections.
- Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser: Faeser has been vocal in her call for action against the IZH, stating that the constitutional state must uphold consistency against antisemitic slurs and extremist acts.
The political landscape is complex as different interest groups and parties hold varying views on the IZH's future. The legal process's outcome will likely hinge on the results of the parliamentary elections and the subsequent government formation.
