Important waiting houses in Berlin: solidarity with Israel or false signal?

Important waiting houses in Berlin: solidarity with Israel or false signal?

According to a report by www.bz-berlin.de, the Berlin city furniture company Wall AG has received a cancellation for the switching of missing persons that should indicate the almost 200 Israelis that Hamas took hostage. The reason for the cancellation was that the posters were classified as polarizing and glorifying violence and the risk of advertising systems was too great. The decision was supported by the transport administration and the Berlin police. The BVG, the state transport companies in Berlin, also refused because the motifs were not compatible with the contracts between BVG and Wall.

This decision has led to controversial reactions in Berlin. Some citizens see it as a sign that the intact waiting houses at bus stops are more important than solidarity with Israel. The posters were designed as missing persons and contained photos and names of the kidnapped Israelis. However, there are no signs of glorification of violence in the motives. Nevertheless, Wall accepted the decision and pointed out that they are responsible for what is broadcast in public space and that a further escalation of the situation should be avoided.

The decision of Wall and the BVG may have an impact on the formation of expression of the Berlin population on Israel and the Middle East conflict. Some could interpret the decision as a lack of solidarity with Israel and see this as a sign of growing anti-Israel moods in Berlin. On the other hand, some citizens could support the decision and argue that advertising systems should remain neutral and that such political messages are not appropriate.

Source: According to a report by www.bz-berlin.de