Title: Mohammad Hadi Mofatteh Faces Deportation After Islamic Center Hamburg Ban
With a two-week deadline approaching, former Islamic Center Hamburg (IZH) leader Mohammad Hadi Mofatteh, 57, is bracing for deportation. The Hamburg Interior Department ordered his removal this week, following a five-week ban on the center, deemed extremist by German authorities. If he fails to comply with the order by September 11, 2024, he risks facing a costly forceful expulsion and return to his homeland, potentially resulting in a three-year prison sentence for breaching the terms.
Mohammad Hadi Mofatteh held the title of IZH leader since the summer of 2018, serving as a representative of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Germany until recently. Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) declared the IZH banned on July 24, labeling it as "a significant Iranian propaganda tool in Europe." Within days, nationwide police raids were conducted to seize the IZH's assets and facilities and those of its five affiliate organizations.
The IZH was banned for its alleged extremist beliefs and ties to Iran's Supreme Leader. German officials accused the center of propagating extremist ideology that contradicts human dignity, women's rights, independent justice, and democratic state principles, as well as promoting aggressive anti-Semitism.
Enrichment Insight:
Investigations revealed ties between the IZH and Hezbollah, a terrorist organization. German authorities alleged that the IZH supported the group and sought to export Iran's Islamic Revolution to Europe. In November 2023, 800 police officers conducted raids on 55 properties nationwide, seizing substantial amounts of data and evidence. The analysis concluded that the IZH network functioned as a support system for Hezbollah sympathizers, operating through mosques, scouting groups, and cultural centers.
Following the investigation, the German government issued a ban order against the IZH and closed the Blue Mosque for over six months. The ban order and subsequent legal action reflect European efforts to crack down on institutions linked to extremist activities, ensuring national security and upholding European values and stability.
Mohammad Hadi Mofatteh, the IZH's ex-head, was issued a deportation order even after leaving the country. His appeal against deportation was ultimately unsuccessful.
Additional Insight:
Mohammad Hadi Mofatteh's case highlights European efforts to discourage foreign extremist influence. German officials have shown a firm stance against individuals associated with extremist groups, setting an example for other nations to follow in upholding democratic principles and safeguarding their citizens' rights.
