Saxony increases protection of Jewish institutions

Saxony has increased protection for Jewish institutions in light of anti-Semitic incidents in Germany. "Attacks on citizens of Jewish faith are attacks on our entire society and our democracy," said head of government Michael Kretschmer (CDU) in Dresden on Wednesday after a meeting with representatives of Jewish communities. "Let's not allow the terror of organizations and states in the Middle East that deny Israel's right to exist to be used as a pretext for anti-Semitism here in Saxony." He said the Saxon government will do everything in its power to enable and protect Jewish life. Details of the protective measures were not provided.

The cabinet strongly condemned the terrorist acts of the Islamist Hamas, including the "intolerable expressions of sympathy and anti-Semitic statements as they are spread at pro-Palestinian rallies," according to a statement from the state chancellery. Nora Goldenbogen, chairwoman of the Saxony Association of Jewish Communities, said she was pleased with the government's stance, saying, "The exchange gave us the opportunity to talk openly and confidently in personal conversations about our current situation, our current fears and anxieties, but also about hopes for the future."