Berlin authorities terminate Palestinian gathering
In a surprising turn of events, a three-day pro-Palestinian conference, scheduled to take place in Berlin over the weekend, was abruptly shut down by the city's police. The conference, which aimed to discuss various aspects of the Palestinian cause, was terminated due to concerns about a specific speaker, Salman Abu Sitta, who has been banned from entering Germany and is deemed to have expressed antisemitic remarks.
On Monday, April 15, the conference was in full swing when police temporarily halted the power at the protest venue as Salman Abu Sitta began his speech. This action, according to Karin de Rigo, a parliamentary candidate for the German branch of DIEM25, resembled the transmission of violence.
The authorities in Berlin had expressed concern about the opinions expected to be shared at the conference in the days leading up to it. Berlin's mayor, Kai Wegner, stated that it was "intolerable" that the conference was happening in Berlin, as the city does not condone antisemitism, hatred, and incitement against Jews.
Salman Abu Sitta, a banned individual in Germany, made a video call appearance at the protest event, which was the cause for the shutdown of the conference. Sitta is known for his controversial views, including expressing understanding for Hamas militants behind the October 7 attack on Israel. In a January essay, he also expressed understanding for the militants' actions.
The authorities announced on social media that a speaker subject to a ban on political activity was projected at the conference. This decision led to approximately 250 participants being demanded to leave the area by authorities.
In response to the police action, activists behind the event are considering taking legal action against the Berlin police. Karin de Rigo, in her statement, asserted that the protesters were treated like criminals.
The gathering was ended and banned on Saturday and Sunday as well, due to continued concerns about antisemitic comments and glorification of violence by Salman Abu Sitta. The organization planning a legal action against the Berlin police after the closure of the pro-Palestinian conference is the "Gewerkschaftsmitglieder für Frieden und Gerechtigkeit in Palästina" (Union Members for Peace and Justice in Palestine).
Berlin, as a city, stands firm against any form of intolerance and discrimination. The city's stance against antisemitism is unwavering, and the recent events serve as a reminder of the importance of promoting peace, justice, and respect for all.
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