Commemoration in Zehlendorf: Solidarity with Israel after terrorist attack

Commemoration in Zehlendorf: Solidarity with Israel after terrorist attack

On October 7, 2025, a public minute's silence took place on Sderotplatz in Zehlendorf, Berlin, in memory of the victims of the terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2023. This memorial event, which began at 12:00 p.m., was intended to send a visible sign of solidarity with those affected, their families and the State of Israel. The Steglitz-Zehlendorf district reaffirmed its decisive commitment against anti-Semitism, terror and hatred. Particularly noteworthy are the district's long-standing relationships with its Israeli twin towns Kiriat Bialik, with which there has been a connection since 1965, and Sderot, which has existed since 1975. To mark the anniversaries, delegations from both cities visited the district from July 7th to 10th, 2025.

October 7th will be remembered as a pivotal date for Israel and the Jewish community, as it was on this day that Hamas terrorists invaded Israel, killing countless innocent civilians. More than 200 people were abducted, causing great pain and fear among survivors and families. In Germany, the federal government shows its solidarity with Israel and recognizes Israel's right to self-defense. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier holds regular talks with his Israeli counterpart to reiterate support.

A call against anti-Semitism

Steinmeier made it clear that the relatives of the kidnapped hostages live in agonizing uncertainty and that Hamas' terror also affects civilians in the Gaza Strip who are not responsible for the violence. It is emphasized that humanitarian aid is necessary for the civilian population in Gaza and at the same time anti-Semitism in Germany is described as unbearable. In order to protect Jewish life, the call to reject anti-Semitism and hatred of Israel is more urgent than ever. Violence and anti-Semitic statements are classified as criminal offenses, while the protection of Jewish life is emphasized as a state responsibility and a civic duty.

A five-point plan has been unveiled in light of the worrying rise in anti-Semitic crimes, which have risen by over 20 percent in the last year. This is aimed at politicians and includes important measures to combat anti-Semitism. Felix Klein, the federal government's anti-Semitism commissioner, emphasizes that the state can create the framework conditions, but the fight against hatred of Jews must be led by each individual.

Five-point plan against anti-Semitism

• Bildung und Begegnung stärken: Bildungsinhalte zu jüdischem Leben, israelischer Geschichte und Antisemitismus sollen im Lehrplan verankert und Begegnungsprogramme ausgebaut werden.
• Recht und Schutz jüdischen Lebens sichern: Antisemitismusbeauftragte sollen bei Behörden eingesetzt und Aufrufe zur Vernichtung eines Staates als Straftat erfasst werden.
• Jüdisches Leben sichtbar und sicher im öffentlichen Raum verankern: Die Ausübung jüdischer Religionsfreiheit soll durch das Feiertagsrecht abgesichert werden.
• Partnerschaften und jüdische Kultur fördern: Wissenschaftliche Kooperationen zwischen Israel und Deutschland sollen gefördert und antisemitische Inhalte von Fördergeldern ausgeschlossen werden.
• Monitoring ausbauen – grenzüberschreitend handeln: Besseres Monitoring antisemitischer Vorfälle und Vernetzung über Grenzen hinweg sind notwendig.

Alexander Sperling, managing director of the regional association of Jewish communities in Westphalia-Lippe, describes the attitude towards life of Jews in Germany as “tense”. Specific incidents that put community members under pressure are not uncommon. A 22-year-old student from Düsseldorf describes the mood as having become more hostile. Current negative statements, such as the anti-Semitic notice in Flensburg, are reminiscent of dark times and are often spread by people who do not intend anti-Semitism.

In view of these challenges, the memorial event not only underlines the importance of solidarity with the victims of the terrorist attack, but also the need to take a decisive stand against anti-Semitism and for peaceful coexistence for all people.