'Ironically, Israel's far-right extremists are more normalized than Germany's far right'
Mar 2, 2025
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Vera Weidenbach, a German journalist from Table Briefings, and David Issacharoff, an editor at Haaretz, dive into the unsettling rise of Germany's far-right AfD party. Weidenbach warns of the party's neo-Nazi roots and its dangerous normalization in German politics. Issacharoff highlights the Israeli perspective, focusing on Netanyahu's support for the conservative CDU. They discuss the implications for both countries and the nuanced responses from Jewish communities regarding this political shift, raising concerns about alliances amidst global extremism.
The rise of Germany's AfD party, deeply rooted in neo-Nazi culture, signals a troubling normalization of extremist ideologies in mainstream politics.
The pro-Israel stance of Germany's new CDU leader Friedrich Merz raises concerns among Jewish communities about far-right rhetoric influencing attitudes toward Palestinians.
Deep dives
Impact of the Far Right on German Politics
The recent German elections marked a significant shift in the political landscape, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AFD) party capturing 20% of the vote, reflecting a troubling trend in national politics. This surge is regarded as a devastating moment for German democracy, as it symbolizes a rise of extreme ideologies reminiscent of historical fascism. The AFD's growth is particularly alarming given Germany's past with totalitarian regimes, leading to concerns about the potential normalization of such extremist beliefs within mainstream politics. Despite some relief that the AFD did not secure enough power to block significant legislation, their increasing influence underscores a broader societal shift toward polarization.
Implications for Israel and German Relations
The election outcomes in Germany hold substantial implications for Israel, particularly regarding its relationship with the incoming government led by Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). Merz is perceived as pro-Israel and is expected to align closely with the Netanyahu government, especially in matters related to military support and political narratives regarding Gaza. This alignment raises concerns among Jewish communities in Germany and abroad, who are wary of the potential for mainstream acceptance of far-right rhetoric that could impact attitudes toward Palestinians. The interplay of foreign policy and domestic electoral dynamics indicates that Israel may find itself benefiting from this shift, despite the long-term risks associated with the rise of the AFD.
Reactions from the Jewish Community in Germany
The Jewish community in Germany has responded with concern regarding the electoral success of the AFD, reflecting anxieties over its influence on societal attitudes and policies. While the Central Council of Jews predominantly aligns with Merz's conservative stance, there exists a divide within the community, with progressive voices warning against his potential support for far-right agendas. Many within the Jewish community oppose the AFD's growing presence, yet some conservative members express support for stricter immigration measures that coincide with Merz's policies. This internal division illustrates the complex dynamics at play, as the community navigates a political landscape increasingly influenced by populist rhetoric and historical allegiances.
On this episode of the Haaretz Podcast, host Allison Kaplan Sommer speaks to two journalists who covered last week’s German election, which concluded with a historically strong showing by Germany’s far-right AfD party.
German journalist Vera Weidenbach said the popularity of the AfD, which is “a direct successor of the Nazis, and, especially in the East, deeply rooted in neo-Nazi culture,” is a troubling and dangerous development, even though it did not get as many votes as its leaders had hoped.
Haaretz’s David Issacharoff discussed the view from Israel, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government was applauding the win for the mainstream conservative Christian Democratic Union Party led by Friedrich Merz, “the most pro-Israel politician in Germany.”
Although, he noted, “some progressive Jews are trying to warn of this blind support to Israel, or the possible blank check that Merz could give Netanyahu to allow him to continue the war in Gaza.”