Middle East Protests Test Hesse Police: "On the Brink"
Chanting hateful slogans and celebrating terrorism: Repeat offenses occur at Middle East demonstrations connected to the conflict, including those in Hesse. Jens Mohrherr, the state leader of the police union, shared this concern with the German Press Agency, stating that the situation poses numerous challenges for the law enforcement officers involved.
These dedicated professionals have the skill to spot unconstitutional symbols. At pro-Palestinian events, however, they must continuously monitor what symbols or chants are being used – sometimes in foreign or native languages – to interfere immediately when necessary. The protests also impact crucial resources, noted Mohrherr, as officers in Hesse are currently operating at their maximum capacity.
The Hessian police are aware of impending pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian events throughout the coming weekend. They maintain neutrality towards various viewpoints and secure all fundamental constitutional rights, including the right to freedom of speech and assembly, clarified the Interior Ministry in Wiesbaden when sought for comment.
Earlier, the Frankfurt public prosecutor-general's office had already alerted prosecutors in Hesse about several potential criminal offenses that could emerge from rallies following the Hamas terrorist attack. The slogan "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free," raising questions about Israel's existence, might trigger initial suspicions of a criminal infraction. However, the specifics of each situation merit evaluation.
The prevalence of hateful speech and glorification of terrorism at Middle East events has spurred numerous confrontations. These conflicts, coupled with the necessity to monitor unconstitutional symbols and slogans, have pushed Hessian police to their breaking point.
Relevant Insights
Police responses to Middle East demonstrations have sparked criticism over concerns about democratic rights and freedoms.
- In January 2025, nearly 70 police officers conducted raids on nine members of the Palästina e.V. association in Hesse. Authorities seized property, including computers, mobile phones, and documents, stating it was to send a "clear signal against antisemitism." Nonetheless, no specific accusations of criminal offenses against Jews were made.
- The Interior Ministry has sought to ban Palästina e.V. for allegedly promoting solidarity with Palestinians and protesting against the genocide in Gaza. The association disputes the comparison between Zionism and Judaism and is committed to combating antisemitism.
- The Hesse state government has been criticized for taking a stance against pro-Palestinian activities, as shown in the banning of the "Talking about (the Silencing of) Palestine" conference at Goethe University in Frankfurt.
- The definition of antisemitism used by German authorities has been criticized as ahistorical and anti-democratic, leading to the labeling of any political opposition to Zionism or Israel's treatment of Palestinians as antisemitic.
- These actions have imposed a strain on police resources and sparked controversy over the balance between security and free speech.
